Issue 4 2021 February 3 NG Times

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Vol. 9 No. 4

The Voice of North Grenville

February 3, 2021

A time for heroes still We're all spending more time at home.

Youmayas wellbe comfy. comfy fy f .

Call Ben.

Karen Quigley, Saltastic

613.258.7173

Jackie Taylor, Jac’s Boutique

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Rebecca Cronk of Get Cronk’d Fitness Studio

by Hilary Thomson

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

At last week’s council meeting, Mayor Peckford made a plea: a call out to all North Grenville residents to support local businesses. “I’m sure that anyone watching is extremely aware of the impact

of the second disruption on our local business community, on which we rely so heavily. So, really, please do your part.”

There are actually many ways to support our local businesses, even if the shopping experience isn’t the same as it would be in non-COVID

Sherry-Lynn Stark, Aphroditi Escape Salon times. Many business owners have been very creative in pivoting their businesses to help them survive in this extremely challenging environment.

Sherry-Lynn Stark owns Aphroditi Escape Salon and Spa in downtown Kemptville. Like all spas, they were

closed during the first shutdown from March-June, and even when they were allowed to open, Sherry-Lynn says it took clients a while to feel comfortable coming back for their usual treatments. The staff were also very cognisant cont'd on page 2

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cont'd from front page of public health guidelines, and limited the number of people allowed in the spa at one time. “Business had probably dropped a good 5055% at that point when we got back up and running again,” she says.

By October, they were into the swing of things and, while it still wasn’t business as usual, more people were feeling comfortable coming back into a spa setting. With business just picking back up, Sherry-Lynn was devastated when she heard they were going to have to close again.

“I was like: not again. This cannot be happening again.”

As a service-based business, the only thing that Aphroditi can offer right now is curbside pickup for their skincare and haircare products.

Sherry-Lynn has also been creative in putting together some DIY manicure and pedicure kits for people to do at home. “It’s just to bring some sort of revenue into the spa while I’m closed right now. I’m still paying rent, I’m still paying my heat, my hydro, my insurance. All that stuff still needs to get paid.”

While she understands the lockdown and stay-at-home order, Sherry-Lynn doesn’t understand why places like Costco can remain open when

a cashier can come into contact with hundreds of people a day. Aphroditi is now an appointment-only based business, and their employees only see one client at a time and wash and sanitize everything between appointments.

“I don’t understand the concept of it. We are over and beyond being so careful and abiding by every protocol that we are supposed to be doing.

It’s been frustrating, it’s been very, very stressful. Mental health is a big thing right now, and being a small business owner, it’s tough.”

Karen Quigley, of Saltastic on County Road 43, is also frustrated with the government shut down. Saltastic offers halotherapy, which involves sitting in a room where dry aerosol salt is heated, ground up into micro-sized particles, and then dispersed into the air for inhalation. “When we were told to close, I was actually very sad, because this is a respiratory pandemic and we can help people keep their lungs healthy, to maintain them,” Karen says. “We’ve had tons of clients writing to Steve Clark and to the health unit to let [them] know that we should be essential.”

Karen has tried to pivot her business by focusing more

on the retail side while they are forced to remain closed.

They offer gift cards and allnatural health and wellness products, and can facilitate curbside pick-up and free local delivery. They also have a new Shopify store on their website, where clients can order products and have them shipped directly to their home. “All our products are for your skin, your health, and your stress management. We have a huge CBD line now that is wonderful. It’s one of our top sellers.”

Jac’s Boutique, in the same mall as Saltastic, also had to close their doors to customers in this second shutdown. Owner, Jackie Taylor, was surprised when the second shutdown arrived after Christmas. She thought that, with the low numbers in North Grenville, they might be exempt. “I was really surprised that we were going to be shut down, and frustrated because we are trying to stay afloat. It feels like you are just starting to make ground and then we get shut down again.”

Although operating during a pandemic is a lot of work, with all the extra cleaning and protocols, Jackie would gladly go back to it if they were able to open again.

She feels extremely frustrated

that North Grenville has been lumped in with the bigger cities in Ontario which are reporting the high numbers.

“This is my income. I don’t have CERB to collect. This is it, and we have a lot on the line. It’s scary, it’s stressful.

We could lose everything.

And the longer this goes on, the more of a chance that is.”

Jackie says they are more than happy to help customers in any way they can, whether it be through orders over the phone, their online store, or a virtual tour of the shop. “I can bring a rack of stuff outside if they want to look at stuff,” she says. “We’re just trying to find any way that we can be helpful in making the process helpful for them.”

Rebecca Cronk of Get Cronk’d Fitness Studio in downtown Kemptville is also doing her best to continue to serve her clients through the shut down. Business was starting to pick up before Christmas, as people were hearing about their safety protocols and feeling more comfortable coming back to the studio. However, Rebecca learned a lot through the first shut down in March and quickly morphed her business into an online studio, offering 10 fitness classes a week, as well as personal training. She also rented out equipment to clients, with recorded workouts so that they could continue with their training on their own time.

“We’re making the best of a bad situation.”

Rebecca says business is still slower than usual, with fewer people opting to take classes at home. However,

New Waste, Recycling, and Organics Program Begins February 1st 2021

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Trash Talk... with the Trash Family Garbage will be collected bi-weekly.

The collection calendar shows if your waste is picked up on Garbage Week 1 or Garbage Week 2.

Bag Tags are $2.75 and are required for garbage collection. There will be a 30-day grace period for the use of the old bag tags.

from the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville Have you experienced a loss of revenue? Are you struggling with what to do next? Are you frustrated with all the challenges and roadblocks you are facing with operating your business right now? Would you like some help with these topics: Accounting, Legal, Social Media, Human Resources, Business Planning, Coaching and Marketing?

The Small Business Ontario Network is providing additional funds to the region’s Small Business Centres to provide businesses in Leeds Grenville with assistance to recover from the effects of COVID-19.

Green bin organics will be collected weekly. If you already compost, use the green bin for the “stinky stuff” that doesn’t go in a backyard composter.

Remember! The more you take advantage of the green bin and recycle, the less solid waste you will produce, reducing your garbage bag tag costs. Visit: www.NGrecycles.ca.

February 4, 2021

things are going better than they did the first time around; but not knowing how long this shut down is going to last is something that is very concerning for her and the rest of the team at Get Cronk’d. “Every month you keep seeing your negative number grow.

And then you get to the point in your head where you’re calculating: if things do go back to normal, how long is it going to take us to dig our way out of that hole?”

Rebecca is frustrated that gyms like hers aren’t considered an essential service. She gets messages regularly from clients saying how much they need their workouts to help with the stresses of daily life.

“Part of our charm at the studio is the atmosphere. It’s the community we’ve built where people can come in, kind of say how they’re feeling, and then the other clients help boost them up. That’s all part of the experience.”

To try and keep that community spirit alive, Get Cronk’d is hosting a fun run, similar to what they did in the summer. “Our last run, we had 62 participants and in 28 days we travelled over 6500km”. Registration is $25 and each participant gets a tshirt. You can choose to walk/

run/snowshoe/skate 20km, 40km or 60km. “It’s winter, so people don’t necessarily go outside as much. We kind of want to hibernate, especially now,” Rebecca says. “So, we’re just trying to get people moving.”

Whether it’s online shopping, virtual tours, taking an online class, or participating in a fun challenge, there are so many ways to stay connected and make sure that our local businesses stay afloat now, and into the future. Our local entrepreneurs are working hard to serve the community as best they can, but they need local heroes to help. And that can be you!

Aphroditi Escape Salon and Spa, 103 Clothier Street E. 613-258-3535. www.aphroditiescapespa. com.

Saltastic, 2727 County Road 43. 613-215-0664. www.saltastic.ca.

Jac’s Boutique, 2727 County Road 43. 613-2150894. www.jacsboutique. com.

Get Cronk’d Fitness Studio, 9 Clothier Street E. 613-713-9413. www. getcronkd.ca.

Local Small Business Centres Offers - Ask the Experts

Recycling remains the same!

Paper & fibre are collected on Garbage Week 1 Plastics & containers are collected on Garbage Week 2

NO BAG TAG REQUIRED ON GREEN BINS!

The Voice of North Grenville

2

Small business owners can access one-on-one time with an expert for no charge. To be eligible the business is registered as a Sole proprietor, General Partnership or Corporation with 0 to 5 employees. The business needs to be currently operating, earning some revenue and effected

by COVID-19.

You are not alone, contact your Small Business Centre to get expert advice on what to do.

North Grenville, Athens, Augusta, Brockville, Edwardsburgh Cardinal, Elizabethtown-Kitley (south portion), Front of Young, Leeds and the Thousand Islands, Gananoque, and Prescott: Contact: Leeds Gren-

ville Small Business Centre - Email Carol Hardy, or call 613-342-0400 x 4432.

Website: https://www.lgsmallbusiness.com.

Elizabethtown-Kitley (north portion), Merrickville-Wolford, Rideau Lakes, Westport: Contact: Small Business Advisory Centre (Smiths Falls / Lanark County / Leeds Grenville) - Email Cindy James, or call 613-283-7002 x108.

Website: https://smallbizcentre.ca.

Send in your letters to the editor to editor@ngtimes.ca

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Kemptville Snowmobile Klub kicks off 49th year of operation

The Kemptville Snowmobile Klub has been making snowmobile owners happy since 1972, and we are at it again. This year, however, is the strangest year yet, with the lock down due to the corona virus.

We cannot host any rallies, group rides, pancake breakfasts, or even have our clubhouse open for snacks and a warm up spot. We are thankful that the provincial government realized the importance of the snowmobile trails to get people out of the house for sunshine, fresh air, and exercise, so they allowed the trails to stay open.

We were preparing for a wave of new snowmobilers, based on the strong sales of snowmobiles all Fall. To date, we have 600 sleds with permits calling the Kemptville club home (a record for us), and that translates into about 850 family members relying on our group of volunteers to make the trails happen in North Grenville and Merrickville-Wolford.

We have only been open for a week, so we are expecting that number to climb.

Although the snow cover is sparse, most trails are passable; however, we need another significant snowfall to really make things nice.

Since we have a large group of new sledders out there, we thought it would

be a good time to review the rules and riding etiquette.

To check trail availability, you have to go to the web site, www.ofsc.on.ca, and find the Integrated Trail Guide (ITG). Zoom in on our area and you will find the trails. Red means they are not available, yellow means they are available but limited quality, and green means available. The provincial government has asked all sledders to remain in their public health unit.

That means, when you are planning your ride, you are expected to stay in Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark, which is our health unit.

We are doing this to avoid spreading any virus to other locations. This may sound silly because we are in our suits, helmets, balaclavas, so how could we spread the virus? It is because we like to stop in groups to socialize; so please respect the wishes of the government.

After all, they were nice enough to allow us to keep the trails open.

When you are on the trails, remember to respect the landowners’ properties. We have been granted permission to cross their land on the marked trail, not wander all over the field and forests. Stay on the trail at all times. Nothing gets us in trouble any faster than a bunch of sleds running around on a field of new seeding. Keep the speed and noise down in residential areas. One of the annual problems is the trespassing off trail in the Ferguson Forest, where there are seed

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Local hero in action in downtown Kemptville

beds of small trees. This is a wonderful recreation area for year around enjoyment, but there are renegade sledders every year who ride off trail and run over seedling trees. If you want to keep enjoying this area on your snowmobile, then please stay off the seed beds.

We also must talk about safety, because the start of the year is usually the most dangerous time, especially for rookie sledders. We will mark the Rideau River and the South Branch when the ice is thick enough. At this time, we are told there is not enough ice in the centre of the river yet. Our guidelines call for 5 inches of good ice to support a snowmobile. Be careful on roads and ditches.

Most accidents happen on roads and ditches, or on ice.

The trail is the safest place to use your snowmobile.

Make sure you have all your paperwork in order.

You must have a driver’s license or a snowmobile operator’s license (12 - 15 years old), insurance on the sled, a provincial license sticker, and, if you are using the trails, an OFSC trail permit. It is best to snowmobile with a buddy in case of an accident or breakdown.

Don’t drink and drive your snowmobile. Keep the speed down. The speed limit on the trail is 50kph and 20kph in town. Be extra careful at night. Carry a cell phone and a tow rope. Let your family know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Remember, this is an off road activity. Mother nature rules, so if a tree blows

down across the trail, or a deer jumps out in front of you, be prepared.

In conclusion, we want to thank our landowners who, again this year, allow us the privilege of crossing their property to connect our trail system. We want to thank all of the permit purchasers who supply us the funding to make these trails. We want to thank the volunteers who put it all together and spend hundreds of hours trying to provide the community with a safe and enjoyable recreation. And to all of those new to snowmobiling, this is not a usual year. Normally, our agenda would be full of activities for you to enjoy. Bear with us through this crazy winter and, hopefully, we will be back to normal next year, our 50th. And finally, we are putting a plug in for Easter Seals. As most of you know, our club has had an annual breakfast, auction, and ride to raise money for this great cause. Since we cannot do these activities this year, watch our Facebook page to see what we can come up with to raise those funds in spite of the virus. That’s all the news for now. Have fun and stay safe!

Help Support Your Local Businesses SHOP LOCALLY

ments. By 2pm, when the shop closed, Manon had received 52 selfies. Not only did people participate in the challenge, Manon also had many other people reach out saying they would also make a donation to the Food Bank.

“It’s so great to see the support the community does, not only for going and taking a

by Hilary Thomson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter selfie, but for actually matching the donation,” she said.

Manon was inspired to A local hero raised $850 create the challenge because for the Kemptville Salvation Army Food Bank this week- she had never been to Bubba end while also supporting a and Bugs before, and she wanted to do something to local business.

On Sunday morning support the community and Kemptville resident Manon a small local business. “It’s Kuilder posted in the Kemp- incredible,” Manon said. “I’m tville Community Bulletin blown away that something Board on Facebook, chal- this morning started as a small lenging the community to idea progressed into $850 visit Bubba and Bugs Coffee for the Food Bank and some Bar in downtown Kemptville amazing support for a new and take a selfie with their local business.”

Sunday was a busy day purchases. “My goal is 50, but if I get at least 30 people for Bubba and Bugs with a to reply to this post today with lineup out the door. Owners a selfie in front of Bubba and Scott Godwin and Luc VinBugs with a purchase I will cent were very thankful for donate $100 worth of food the challenge and thanked to the Kemptville Food Bank Manon on Facebook: “We and I will purchase the food just wanted to say how much from a local grocery store (not we appreciate this. All small businesses downtown need Walmart),” she wrote.

The challenge took off some love these days, and like wildfire, with almost 50 this gesture means the world.” shares and over 100 com-

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Bubba and Bugs supports children’s mental health

by Hilary Thomson Bubba and Bugs Coffee Bar in downtown Kemptville raised money for Children’s Mental Health and Leeds and Grenville (CMHLG) last Thursday in honour of Bell Let’s Talk Day. Café co-owner, Scott Godwin, says that, to mark the occasion, they wanted to find a local not for profit to support that focused on youth mental health. CMHLG was a perfect fit, as a lot of customers coming into the coffee bar throughout the day were saying that they used CMHLG services for their own children.

Bubba and Bugs donated all the proceeds from the sale of americanos throughout the day to CMHLG, raising $175 for the organization. Scott says that, despite business being slow, they still felt the need to support mental health in the community, especially during these difficult times. “The tougher things get, the more you want to give.”

Bubba and Bugs is open for takeout Tuesday-Friday, 8 am-4 pm, and Saturday/Sunday, 9 am-2 pm, serving up hot beverages, delicious sandwiches, fresh baked goods, and service with a smile. Stop by and support one of our great local businesses!

Bubba and Bugs Coffee Bar owners Scott Godwin and Luc Vincent February 4, 2021

3

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The North Grenville Times

Email mailing lists – worth their weight in gold

Susie McIntosh from Susie M's Hidden Treasures from the Economic Development eNews We’ve all signed up for them at one point or another.

Love them or loathe them, mailing lists are here to stay.

According to the Direct Marketing Association, email marketing sees a 4300% average return on investment for businesses. It’s a powerful form of communication, and one you can’t afford to miss out on. There are many reasons to build a mailing list.

It’s the easiest way to get a message out to your customers quickly.

Studies show 91% of con-

sumers check their email daily, while going days without checking some social media platforms. Mailing lists are also a great way to ensure your customers become repeat customers, bringing regular awareness of a brand they already know and trust.

Mailing lists can come across as more personal than an ad, being able to insert personalized names in your greetings. And most importantly – once you have a mailing list, you own it.

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter can change frequently, but people remain loyal

Meagan Warren, owner of Wilding Acres sures are china, solid woods, antiques, vintage furniture, unique pieces and collector items. Her motto: "Where selected heirlooms become new treasures."

Susie wanted to make improvements to her online capabilities and her store's online presence. She has been working with Julie DeBoer, a member of the North Grenville Digital Service Squad.

“The members of the DSS were very easy to deal with and ensured that my husband and I always had the most current information,"

to their email address far longer than their social media platforms.

Are you convinced? If so, the Digital Service Squads throughout Leeds Grenville can help you begin your mailing list journey. Reach out to your local Digital Service Squad, contact econdev@ uclg.on.ca or call 613-3423840, ext. 5361.

Business owner Susie McIntosh, of Susie M’s Hidden Treasures, operates her store of eclectic finds and curios at 200 Sanders Street, Unit 103, in Old Town Kemptville. Among her trea-

The Voice of North Grenville

says Susie."The Digital Main Street grant application and training programs were very easy to access."

Another business in North Grenville that has been working with the DSS is Wilding Acres, a family run flower farm that specializes in the utilization of sustainable farming techniques to produce hand-tied, seasonal flower bouquets. Wilding Acres is operated by Meagan Warren and her son Jax. “My youngest son asked if we could start a business where we grew and sold plants so that when he grew up he could stay home and grow plants with me. I had trouble saying no to that request,” says Meagan. “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Digital Main Street Program.

DSS member Ronnie Quesnel reached out to me within days of my application and was able to answer my questions and help me with getting my digital assets and ideas organized. The knowledge I have gained thus far is truly invaluable and it makes me so optimistic for the future of my business.”

Community Association requesting “meaningful consultation” on plans for Burritts Rapids

by Hilary Thomson

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Consulting firm, WSP, made a presentation to council at the meeting of January 26, outlining the focus and priorities for the Burritts Rapids Conceptual Design Plan. In 2015, North Grenville alerted the residents of Burritts Rapids about plans to upgrade the infrastructure in the hamlet.

After learning more about what the municipality was planning, the Burritts Rapids Community Association (BRCA) put a stop to it because, although the plans fixed some of the issues, they did not fit into the overall look and feel of the historic hamlet.

“It was a short term, knee jerk reaction,” remembers Inge Vangemeren, long-time Burritts Rapids resident and Chair of the BRCA. The BRCA has been working hard since 2015 to put together a Hamlet Design Plan (HDP) that would upgrade the existing infrastructure while still maintaining the charm of the hamlet. “Burritts Rapids is old enough now that it kind February 4, 2021

of deserves a bit of a reset,” Inge says. “We don’t expect everything to get fixed at once. That’s ridiculous. But let’s at least make sure, if we have a big plan, that we know each time they do come along to put in, call it a ‘band aid’, that the band aid fits with the long-term plan.”

The completed HDP was presented to a sub-set of council and staff on February 25, 2020. The BRCA had planned to make a more formal presentation to council to ask for their support, however, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted that plan.

WSP was hired later in 2020 to take all the information that had been gathered by the municipality and the BRCA over the years and create a Conceptual Design Plan and Community Design Guidelines which will address capital improvement needs. “It’s gotten us here to this point to try and take all that information, and those visions, to come up with something that can both meet the requirements from an operational side, but as well as from the community side,”

Kimberly Hunton of WSP told council.

While taking into consideration the modernization of infrastructure in Burritts Rapids, WSP will also be aiming to implement the community vision for the hamlet, as outlined in North Grenville’s Official Plan.

This includes maintaining small village characteristics (narrow streets with minimal asphalt, increased green spaces and trees), preserving the hamlet’s heritage through streetscaping and landscaping, minimizing noise, traffic volumes/speeds, and light pollution, and providing a safe environment for residents of all ages to walk and drive in the community.

WSP has just finished the information-gathering stage of the process, having consulted with the BRCA, and agencies like Parks Canada, the City of Ottawa, and the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority. Stakeholders provided input on maintaining roadway cross sections, controlling traffic volumes and speeds, improving infrastructure for active transportation,

stormwater management, winter and road maintenance, emergency services, street lighting, parking at Henry Street beach, the use of the Parks Canada swing bridge, and parking at the Tip-to-Tip trail.

Representatives from the BRCA were at the meeting for WSP’s delegation and also made a presentation of their own. They feel that meaningful consultation with the community will be integral as the conceptual design moves forward. “We certainly felt that need to do that with the community ourselves. We felt that pressure and responsibility,” said Bart Bilmer of the BRCA. “But we think it is also important and it’s also meaningful with North Grenville, whether it’s with Public Works or the Planning Department, or with other stakeholders.”

WSP has now completed their information gathering stage and will proceed with preparing the Draft Conceptual Design Plans, which will be presented to stakeholders and the public in March. There is currently no time scheduled in

4

the project contract for further consultation before the Draft Conceptual Design Plan is complete. The final plan and report is due to be presented to council in May, 2021.

The BRCA’s main concern is that they feel they have been completely excluded from the process. “We had to beg and plead for the association to be part of the stakeholders meeting,” Inge says.

“And now we are desperately looking to make sure that the next phase, where they’re going to come back with some layout options, has some meaningful consultation.”

The BRCA would be happy with WSP’s plan of presenting the draft plan to stakeholders and the public in March, as long as they are

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afforded the time to ask questions and have input into the final design. “We are just concerned, because they are not forthcoming at this moment about what that process is going to look like,” Inge says.

Councillor John Barclay said that, while he understands the BRCA’s anxiety in turning over the process to WSP, he believes this is an exciting time, as they are at a turning point in actually being able to implement some of the hard work and planning that has been ongoing for years.

“I just want to reflect back what I have heard from the community. I understand their anxiety going forward, but we have to cross at this point and start turning it into a reality,” he said.

Shannon Lever

Marketing Consultant

Phone 613.791.8317 Email: shannonlever@ndtimes.ca www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Council receives new plan for the development of downtown Kemptville pality, told council.

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The new DKAP is focused on the vision that downtown Kemptville is The municipality has a a vibrant gathering point new plan which hopes to that connects residents and encourage investment in visitors with unique experiNorth Grenville’s downtown ences and amenities. With core. Starting in Novem- this vision in mind, staff ber, the Municipality of came up with three goals to North Grenville initiated the frame the plan: incentivising process to create a Down- desired investment through town Kemptville Commu- financial tools, establishing nity Action Plan (DKAP), flexible planning for creative to replace the Community development, and updating Improvement Plan (CIP) practices to align resources with a more robust program and priorities. to encourage development Financial programs sugin downtown Kemptville. gested in the draft DKAP inThe CIP program was cre- clude a development charges ated in 2013 and covered waiver (which is already in only Rideau and Sanders place until 2023); a tax increStreets. The program gave ment equivalent residential out grants to eligible busi- grant, which provides the nesses and property owners grant equivalent for the mufor façade, landscaping, and nicipal portion of property signage upgrades. In 2017, tax for new residential dethe program was expanded to velopment; a People Make include Clothier and Prescott the Place grant, which would Street, and continued until provide a $5,000 grant per 2019. According to staff, the residential unit created in program was underutilized, multi-residential builds; a as not all the funds were building fees grant, which distributed in 2018 or 2019. covers 50% of the cost, up Other CIP programs, like the to $2,500, for building fees; tax increment based incen- and a façade and signage tive grant, a financial tax grant which covers 50 % assistance program, and the of the cost, up to $10,000, residential intensification de- for high quality improvevelopment charges exemp- ments to the frontage of tion, were also underutilized. commercial spaces. Staff In developing the new will be bringing a more DKAP, municipal staff and detailed financial report an outside consultant con- back to council. However, sidered a variety of back- they are estimating a cost of ground material, and also $125,000 annually to fund consulted directly with com- these programs. munity stakeholders, such In terms of planning as the Old Town Kemptville tools, staff are suggesting BIA, mayor and council, the implementation of a and developers. The two key Community Planning Permit themes that arose from these System (CPPS). According consultations were connec- to the Government of Ontivity and people. “There tario website, a CPPS is a was a desire to better con- land use planning tool that nect downtown’s assets, and can help make the developa need to have more people ment approval process more living in the core,” Hillary streamlined and efficient, get Geneau, Strategic Initiatives housing to market quicker, Coordinator for the munici- support local priorities (ex.

by Hilary Thomson

The Voice of North Grenville

WE'D LOVE TO HELP! WHETHER YOU HAVE AN INJURY OR COULD JUST USE

community building) and create certainty and transparency for the community, landowners, and developers “The unique parcel fabrics and building configurations that have developed over the long history of downtown Kemptville do not lend themselves well to a one size fits all approach,” Hillary said. “A CPPS regulates the form, scale, and character of development, and allows investors to tailor unique solutions to the unique issues of particular pieces of land, and consolidates all planning and development building permit applications into one single, shorter process.”

Other planning tools include a cash-in-lieu of parking bylaw, conducting a parking study, and investigating further parking leases with private property owners. It also suggests building on the work done during the COVID-19 pandemic to encourage businesses and property owners to establish patios along the downtown streets.

The DKAP also outlines putting processes in place to help to make investment in the downtown easier for investors. This includes having a single point of contact, providing top of the pile service, and reconfiguring the development review process.

To make sure the Old Town Kemptville BIA can support growth, the plan also encourages that municipality support them in expanding their footprint to cover Rideau and Sanders Streets.

The DKAP is set to take shape from February, 2021 to December, 2024, with a pause for review in January, 2023. Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman felt DKAP, as presented by Hillary, looked extremely encouraging. “I know, a few months back, I

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THOMAS M. BYRNE felt that we needed a more robust CIP for the downtown to make stuff happen, because what we’ve done in the past really hasn’t done anything,” he said.

Councillor John Barclay, who is the former Executive Director of the BIA, agreed with the Deputy Mayor, saying that many of the elements outlined in the draft proposal are elements that they are looking for. “I think we finally have a plan that has real teeth,” he said.

The DKAP will now be posted on the website for public review and comment.

In order to implement the CPPS, there will need to be an official plan amendment, which will include more public engagement and consultation. A revised plan, taking into consideration council and public comment, will be coming back to council at a future meeting.

Barrister and Solicitor

General Practice Corporate / Commercial Family Law Estates Real Estate Wills & Powers of Attorney tom@tmblaw.ca 613.258.1277 222 Prescott St., Kemptville

Freshly baked goods

Homemade frozen meals Pizza & subs LCBO/Beer Store convenience outlet

613-989-1323

Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-7pm Sat&Sun 7am-7pm 1738 County Rd 1, Mountain Ontario

Calling small business owners COVID-19 support could be available to you.

• Grants of up to $20,000 through the Ontario Small Business Support Grant • Up to $1,000 in support for purchasing PPE through Ontario's Main Street Relief Grant • Rebates for property tax and energy costs

We’re working to ensure small businesses can keep employing people and serving their communities now and when COVID-19 is behind us.

Visit ontario.ca/COVIDsupport to apply

WE NEED HEROES

ACT NOW

February 4, 2021

Paid for by the Government of Ontario 5

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The North Grenville Times

BIA News: FAQ

The Old Town Kemptville has been a key part of the community for a number of years now; but, despite many conversations with people over the years, there are still some who don’t know about, or understand what exactly a Business Improvement Area (BIA) is, or sometimes that it even exists.

So, we decided to do a series of frequently asked

OPEN FOR TAKE OUT

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146 Prescott St. Kemptville Tues. to Fri. 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sat. & Sun. 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

questions (FAQ) to help people learn more about the BIA, what it is, how it works and what it does.

What exactly is a Business Improvement Area (BIA)?

A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a “made-in-Ontario” innovation that allows local businesspeople, commercial property owners and tenants to join together with the support of the municipal-

make the area more inviting to attract more visitors.

- Marketing of the BIA as a business, wellness, tourism or shopping area through the creation of effective marketing tools, events & programming, social media and other supports.

- Seeking out learning & business development opportunities, government funding programs and other tools to help their members to be successful.

- Hosting both BIA and community-led festivals and events in the Downtown area.

- Ensuring community safety through diligence, observance and advocacy.

- Creating strategic plans for economic development, community development and other improvements on behalf of the members.

- Building relationships and partnerships with other groups, organizations and municipal government to build a stronger community.

- Advocacy on behalf of their members as a unified voice on matters that are important to and significantly impact the membership.

How Does a BIA Work?

A BIA is run by a volunteer Board of Management elected from its members.

The Board is elected at an

ity, to improve the conditions for businesses to be successful and to improve the quality of life within a specific, well-defined footprint. A BIA is established by a municipality often at the request of business and property owners or other stakeholders. To establish a BIA, a specific municipal bylaw must be created and passed by Council. BIAs are considered a Committee of Council and governed by provincial legislation called the Municipal Act, 2001.

What Can a BIA Do? Local businesses, working collectively as a BIA, become catalysts for improving the local business environment and quality of life of the community. As a Committee of Council mandated by provincial legislation, BIAs manage a budget using an elected Board of Management and, through the municipality, collect a levy from businesses in the area to raise the necessary funds for that budget. BIAs help to create the conditions for businesses to be successful and improve the quality of life for the community through activities such as: - Pursuing street level enhancements, furnishings, beautification measures and other improvements to

The Voice of North Grenville

Annual General Meeting (AGM) and, once approved by municipal council, serves a four-year term concurrent with the term of Council.

The Board works on behalf of its members and meets monthly to manage budgets, set priorities, create plans & strategies, organize events and activities, oversee dayto-day operations and market the BIA (downtown) as a destination.

How is a BIA Funded?

Once the BIA members approve the budget at the Annual General Meeting and municipal council approves it, funds are raised through a small levy on all commercial and industrial properties within the BIA’s footprint. Calculation of this levy is based on the proportionate value of each property’s commercial assessment as dictated by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).

Once the Municipality collects the levy, it forwards the funds to the BIA. What Are the Benefits of a BIA? By creating a vibrant neighbourhood commercial area and marketing it effectively, BIAs can help their member businesses better compete in an age of big box retailing and online shopping. By work-

ing collectively, BIAs can help small “Mom & Pop” businesses increase their chances of success by leveraging the collective efforts, resources, expertise and knowledge of other member businesses.

BIAs can also work to protect the best interests of their members when dealing with matters involving various levels of government on a variety of issues.

BIAs can be catalysts for civic improvement and significant contributors to the local economy and help improve the quality of life of the greater community.

By working collectively with other groups and organizations to help preserve the unique built heritage and natural assets of the community.

If you ever have any questions about the BIA or are simply curious about what’s happening Downtown, just send us an email at bia@northgrenville.on.ca and we’ll add you to our mailing list for our newsletter. There’s always something going on in Downtown Kemptville.

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613-258-2630 28 Clothier Street East, Kemptville February 4, 2021

6

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The North Grenville Times

Just a song before I go

by Peter Johnson Greetings North Gremlins. My dearly-departed mother would often say, “If you can't say something nice...go to your room!”

With that in mind, I have some observations to share about a previous edition of The NG Times (Jan. 20,2021).

Firstly, I will start with Dr. Dave's editorial. Not only am I pleased that he continues our shared habit of using popular song titles or lyrics for the headline of his pieces, but also, that each editorial is an example of how the English language should be used. Far be it for him to say, 'Shop Local', when he knows very well that 'shop' here is being used as a verb and to modify or describe that verb one should use an adverb... 'local' is not - it is an adjective. So, for grammarians and those with a rudimentary understanding of how their mother tongue should be constructed, the non-grating/ correct term should be, 'shop locally'. Perhaps the originator of the expression thought that it would be a more effective slogan if you deliberately perverted the language - then more people might take notice. But, of course, I digress. His opinion piece was very good... in my notso-humble opinion. Debunking conspiracy theories at a time of a global pandemic is always an excellent idea.

And, as always, his perspective as an historian always strengthens his arguments. (yes, I intended to use 'an') The lead article, 'A Piece of Polar History in North Grenville' - again, informative and interesting; plus another example of journalism that was well written. (alliteration alert) Next, my favourite section of the paper

- Letters to the Editor.

Nadia Gray began with "Random thoughts brought on by having time to muse during this pandemic.” She went on to make 10 very cogent points. She obviously had some very good language teachers ...I am struggling to remember if I was one of them. She wrapped up with the point, “I cannot understand this placement of a prison on our doorstep.”

Well said! When I read that, a recurring thought crossed my mind: “This is such a secure seat, the Conservatives will do whatever they wish, without concern for consequences.” Then my mind went on to: “Those same Ford Conservatives that reduced inspections in Long Term Care Facilities, but are not making mention of that now.”

And then on to: “Will the lessons of Mike Harris, water inspections, and Walkerton not be learned from?” (Yikes ...another dang preposition at the end of the sentence, at!)

Clair Smith's letter regarding the pleasures of shopping at Jonsson's Independent was another positive contribution. (I would also like to include a shout out to the B & H Grocery, another excellent community-supporting business.)

That letter was followed

by Lorraine Rekmans'. Her topic sentence said it all: “It may be no surprise to Ontarians that our healthcare system is in dire need of more investment and improvement.” Her points were re-iterated on January 27, at noon, on the CBC, when Rita Celli, host of Ontario Today, interviewed Andrea Horvath, leader of the provincial NDP, the Official Opposition at Queen's Park. (She was asked what sort of a relationship/ dialogue there was between

the Conservatives and the Official Opposition: “There is none”, was her response. The lesson: don't criticize Doug Ford. He'll double down like Trump). Her point, and Ms. Rekmans', that there is a shortage of PSW workers in the province, is something we should all take note of (dang, another sentence ending in a preposition!). PSW workers are paid like EA's in education, not just very poorly, but extremely so. Both provide essential services, both have to work at 2 or 3 jobs to scrape by just to make a very basic living wage; appropriately described as 'the working poor.' Who would want to go into that line of work?

I congratulate Ms. Rekmans. Can you imagine a more frustrating job than being the Green candidate in Leeds-Grenville? Talk about a voice in the wilderness.

But year in and year out, she carries on, working for the promotion of the core values of her Party; tireless in her efforts to address environmental issues. She wraps up her letter with: “Our vision must be to create a better society, and not a vision driven by political favours to rich friends.”

Hear! Hear! Now, for all those out there who would much rather be infested by the fleas of a thousand camels than even think of voting Green, go ahead: tell me what is wrong with what she said.

But please, try to do it in clear, concise, correct English (2nd alliteration alert) The final letter of that week's edition was by Angela Wood. Ms. Wood's letter on Roblox and cyber-bullying was another example of the literary superiority, typical of the contributors and letterwriters in The NG Times.

Next, I noted the 'Statement from Mayor Nancy Peckford'.

What an impressive job Her Worship and the Council are doing. I moved to The Upper Oxford Mills area on the eve of The Ice Storm. I have paid close attention to the councils in the past 23 years. Since all of the previous incumbents finished well behind those who are on Council now, it appears that the residents of North Grenville demonstrated their frustration, when last they had a chance to vote. They wanted a change. They wanted things done differently. And it has happened. Not with just her Worship, but with each and every one of the members of Council. We are very lucky to have these people representing us. In addition to their family responsibilities and other jobs, they have worked tirelessly to familiarize themselves with their new positions and to do them as well as they can. I congratulate and thank you all (especially for the 0% increase in my taxes for the upcoming year.) By the way, do you want proof that they are doing a good job? I believe it was John Barclay who mused that he wondered how long the 'honeymoon' would last until the Editor of The NG Times took them all to task. Well, to the best of my knowledge, they remain unscathed, so they must be doing most things right. Dr. Dave has not taken out the knives yet.

And so, that's my 'song'.

Thanks to Crosby, Stills and Nash for such a beautiful tune. Thanks to those who make the effort each week to put together OUR local paper.

One last point: if you are reading this in your local paper, are you, 'Reading Local' or 'Reading Locally'?

Be safe, be well, let's watch out for each other...we are all in this together.

An urgent letter to the Government of Canada

We have very a serious situation in this country.

Google and Facebook, two of the richest companies in history, control the onramp to the internet highway in Canada. They decide what we as a sovereign nation see and don’t see in the news. To make matters worse, they take the news produced by Canadians and don’t pay for it.

Meanwhile, all Canadian news media companies, big and small, are suffering for two reasons: First, they don’t get paid for their content by Facebook and Google; February 4, 2021

Second, Facebook and Google take over 80% of all Canadian digital advertising industry revenue.

These massive American companies get virtually all of the revenue and don’t pay for content. Movie content doesn’t work that way in Canada. Music content doesn’t work that way. TV show content doesn’t work that way. So why is news content treated differently?

We only have to look south of the border to see what happens when real news companies disappear and social media platforms distribute divisive, fake

news. We need to support healthy, independent, diverse news companies as the backbone of our democracy. This is urgent. It’s a fact that news companies across Canada are going out of business. COVID-19 is accelerating the decline.

Journalism jobs are disappearing. That means real news keeps disappearing and hate and fake news will be all that’s left to distribute.

Let’s not let this happen in Canada.

But there is good news.

Australia has figured out the solution. They created a law

that forces the trillion-dollar monopolies to pay fairly for news content. This costs the taxpayer absolutely nothing. We strongly encourage the government to move quickly. Canada needs your leadership.

John Hinds President/CEO News Media Canada

The Voice of North Grenville

UPDATE

UPDATE

For updates related to COVID-19 visit: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus NORTH GRENVILLE MUNICIPAL OFFICE In light of the province-wide shut down, please be advised that the Municipal Centre is currently closed to the public. The Municipality remains operational to provide essential services and assistance to residents and businesses by virtual appointment only.

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council meetings will be conducted virtually via Zoom. Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube commencing at 6:30 p.m. To view the live stream visit: https://www.youtube. com/user/NorthGrenville/featured.

For any members of the public wanting to attend the meeting virtually, pre-registration is required by e-mailing clerk@northgrenville.on.ca. To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please pre-register with the Clerk’s Office at the same e-mail address. Please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting.

Planning Public Meetings – Wednesday, February 10, 2021 • Proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment – 7 Grenville St. • Proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment – 32 Garrison Dr. – Deferred • Official Plan – 5870 County Rd. 19 • Official Plan – Community Planning Permit System

ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS Heritage Advisory Committee – Thursday, February 4, 2021 at 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm Health, Wellness & Fitness Advisory Committee – Monday, February 8, 2021 at 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Arts and Culture Advisory Committee – Thursday, February 11, 2021 at 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

NEW WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM BEGINS FEBRUARY 2021 Bi-weekly garbage and organics collection begins this week.

30-day grace period for use of old bag tags. NO bag tags required for weekly organics collection (green bin). For more information visit www.NGrecycles.ca.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Visit www.northgrenville.ca/careers for more details: Senior Planner – Housing Policy: Closing Date – February 19, 2021 at 4 pm Engineering Summer Students: Closing Date – February 19, 2021 at 4 pm Spring/Summer Student Positions 2021: Closing Date – February 26, 2021 at 4 pm

The Municipality of North Grenville

285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: email: bylawinquiries@northgrenville.on.ca 613-258-9569 x211 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

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Editorial

The North Grenville Times

It’s a small world after all

by David Shanahan Who would have thought that the response to having viable vaccines against covid-19 could be a source of discord and introduce a new form of nationalism? But that’s what’s happened over the past couple of weeks, even as more vaccines are approved and more people are getting “the jab”. What is happening is that the basic inequalities in the world are being highlighted by the ability of richer nations to buy up the supply of jabs, against the lack of capacity of poorer countries. And Canada is right in the centre of the issue.

We generally like to think that the world sees Canada and Canadians as among the good guys, the nice, polite, strong without being pushy kind of country. But we have been getting some bad press recently and, compared to places like New Zealand, Canada is not looking great these days.

The vaccine situation came to the fore last week, when the European Union

tried to block vaccines from getting to the United Kingdom, claiming that their contracts with one firm, Astra-Zenica, gave them the right to millions of jabs that they said were being diverted to the U.K. This raised the matter of “vaccine nationalism”, as it is being called. The statistics that were revealed cast a wider shadow than just the EU-UK dispute.

It seems the EU has ordered enough vaccine doses to give each of their citizens twice as many jabs as they need - 1.6 billion. The United States has bought 1.2 billion doses, enough to give each of their citizens 3.7 doses. But the really big surprise, and something of a scandal in the eyes of the world, is that Canada has ordered 362 million doses, enough to give each one of us almost 10 jabs (remember, we probably only need two). This is, by far, the most excessive amount of any country in the world.

Compared to Canada, other countries are lacking enough vaccine doses to

provide adequate protection for their people. The African Union countries have only enough to give .2 doses per person, one-tenth of what they need. The World Health Organization [WHO] has called the situation “a looming catastrophic moral failure”. It has the potential to undermine the effectiveness of the vaccine program worldwide. The fact is that vaccine nationalism is pointless and even dangerous. This is a global pandemic, which means that, even if each and every Canadian got the 9.6 doses of vaccine the government has ordered, we would still not be safe if the rest of the world continued to be vulnerable to variants of covid that would most likely develop in unvaccinated nations. All the restrictions would need to be maintained in the long term, to ensure that we didn’t import a variant that the current vaccinations might not be able to handle.

But it’s not all bad, and it is certainly not inevitable.

There is a growing move-

ment to transfer unused vaccines from places like Canada to where there is a lack. The WHO has set up the Covax group, to ensure that vaccines are shared equitably around the world.

It has agreed deals for 1.1 billion doses so far, though that is less than half of the combined total for the EU, UK, and US. There is even a move to have a Canadianmade vaccine in action this year, and the more vaccines that are developed, the more people will get vaccinated.

Yes, Canada is looking a little greedy right now, and that comes on top of a few other bad news stories coming from here. Internationally, we’ve grabbed headlines for that despicable couple who traveled to a northern community and pretended to be locals in order to get vaccinated. They’ve been fined a couple of thousand dollars, but he earned some thing like $46 million last year, so that hardly hurts him. There is some talk of turning the fine into jail time, and that might be more effective in deterring other

The Voice of North Grenville

selfish millionaires.

Then there was the story about our late Governor General and her diva-style treatment of staff and taxpayers’ dollars in Rideau Hall. And she seemed such a nice lady! That scandal didn’t do Justin Trudeau any good either, as people began to wonder why he hadn’t known about her previous departures from jobs under similar clouds. Yes, Canada’s reputation has taken something of a beating recently, but nothing that will make a permanent dent in the world’s image of us.

It may be surprising and rather irritating to realise that Justin Trudeau is almost as popular a world leader as Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand.

Except, naturally, in Cana-

da, where he is not perhaps equally well thought of.

But then, we know more than the rest of the world.

They only get the headlines and photo ops. We get the whole scoop. And five times as many vaccine doses as we need.

Send in your letters to the editor to editor@ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated

the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, Thank you for your excellent article spotlighting the struggles of local businesses during this unprecedented time. It must be heart wrenching for owners to struggle daily just to stay afloat. North Grenville Times provides a valuable service in reminding us all to “shop local” to help keep our business community viable.

Why then does “The Food Corner” recipe, written by one of the self-same struggling business owners, contain a suggestion that we look for dried shiitake mushrooms at a) a grocer well outside of our local area and b) from a national retailer who is unlikely to have any interest in our community beyond a number on a spreadsheet?!

I’m sure this concoction is, as stated, “a winner”. I am equally sure that

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402 February 4, 2021

there are dozens of equally amazing recipes that make use of ingredients that can be sourced locally.

What a sadly wasted opportunity.

Respectfully, Lesley Wilson

Paths to Eliminate Anti-Black Racism

On February 17, from 1:00 to 2:30 pm, the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) will be hosting an online event entitled Leadership in Action: Paths to Eliminate AntiBlack Racism.

Academics and public servants leading anti-racism, diversity, and inclusion initiatives will share some of the actions currently underway to address and eliminate anti-black racism. A call for dedicated actions to address systemic Anti-Black racism within our institutions, organizations, and communities has generated new pathways to develop and strengthen leadership.

Public sector leaders have committed to lead differently and foster diversity and inclusion in their respective departments and agencies, as well as in the delivery of their service to Canadians.

This event is free.

Tickets available through Eventbrite. IPAC Leadership in Action: Paths to Eliminate AntiBlack Racism.

Link to register: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/leadership-in-action-paths-to-eliminate-antiblack-racism-tickets-138282880819?aff=erelexpmlt

WE NEED HEROES the north grenville

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TIMES

Editor Marketing David Shanahan Shannon Lever shannon@ngtimes.ca david@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

OFFICE 613-215-0735 Accounting Pat Jessop cfo@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

Copy Editor editor@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

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Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca

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The Voice of North Grenville

The Cost of Magical Thinking

by Jim Bertram We live in decidedly difficult times. As most of us are aware, difficult problems require that we dedicate ourselves to processes of problem solving which make significant effort necessary.

That reality applies to many, if not all, current issues.

And it is always disappointing to see attempts to pass off half-baked thinking in the guise of a solution. As if merely pronouncing the words one chooses will produce a wonderful resolution of a problem. Truly magical thinking, which usually has as its object some reward for the speaker.

A disappointing example of this was cited last week when, in ‘A Time for heroes’, David Shanahan referred to the Premier of Ontario advising people to shop at big box stores as a solution for many of the woes due to Covid.

Wonderful. What a solution in the time of Covid. Only a few problems with that though, not the least of which is the plight of small and medium business owners, many of whom are losing their lifetime of work and investment dedicated to building their small but vital piece of

Canada’s business economy.

Oh well, Mr. Premier, at least your large corporate friends will be well cared for. And I guess that suits you. But what is the COST for so many small businesses of your magical, unreflected solution?

And the global cost to our economy?

A second example of shallow magical thinking was referred to in a letter by Willem Van Dam, when he referred to an old and seriously overworked pseudo-solution to society’s many problems: just tax those evil rich who we know (don’t we?) don’t pull their weight in society.

Mr. Van Dam refers to Ms. Rekmans’ letter of January 20, which did contain some interesting points. But Mr. Van Dam rightly makes a beginning in attacking Ms. Rekmans’ magical thinking ‘tax the rich’ scheme. His excellent, practical critique could have gone much further, even unto book-length.

Basically though, punishing taxes on the ‘rich’ would ultimately have costs far greater than any good produced for society. Perhaps a sense of balance and priorities, to say nothing of truth, would serve government and society better

than leading a tax rampage against Canadians whose chief crime seems to be that they have been successful at their professional or business activities (think doctors, owners of truck centres, homebuilders, lawyers, etc). That observation will, of course, not please the Left, whose preference for empty ‘magical’ solutions and utopias is well documented, as is the extensive human and economic wreckage left in their wake.

Nor will it please governments, whose hunger for your wealth, meagre though that “wealth” may be, is voracious and infinite.

Another example of magical thinking in the service of unintelligent and destructive government policy is the claim by MPP Steve Clark that the jail he foisted on us in a surprise announcement in August would provide economic growth overall for our North Grenville community. In a series of articles last September, I referred, among other things, to numerous objective academic studies which countered both Clark’s self-serving claims, and those of his cheerleaders on local Council. Unfortunately, many in our community have found

it easier to join Council and roll over before the provincial juggernaut without even the merest opposition to the Clark/Ford jail. And the cost of accepting the magic of expediency? Think of your community here in Kemptville in 10 years with the social and fiscal costs attendant with the operation of a large jail, a jail which, once established here, will only grow in size.

Given the ravages of time, I probably won’t be here to ‘enjoy’ that scene, but I’m willing right now to continue fighting for the rights of those that will be. Hopefully others will eventually find the wherewithal to stand up in numbers to oppose the folly of this jail. This monument to superficial magical thinking.

So, at the end of the day, if not superficial nostrums and magical thinking, then what? Mr. Shanahan, in his article cited above, alludes to our power as individuals who contribute importantly to solutions. First, I say don’t accept bafflegab offered on the political level, either locally or provincially. Think.

Think again. And act. Act to help (y)our neighbours.

Last week I wrote about food banks. They’re still there.

We can also frequent our local businesses and help them maintain their existence and, thus, their valuable contribution to our social and economic welfare. We can be vocally active in defense of our community. We can avoid the quick solution, the glib prepared comment, the magic of the empty, self-

services

serving statements of many politicians and their rewardseeking servants. Send the magicians on their way and work your own individual solutions. As Mr. Shanahan suggests, find a way to be a hero. If you do, you will work true magic.

Joe Gauthier Master Electrician

613.802.4608

joe@oldschool-electric.ca

"No Job Too Small"

A provincial Stay-at-Home order is in effect until February 11th Stay at home as much as possible and only go out when required. Do not travel outside your health region unless absolutely necessary.

Show your Support and Shop Local Now more than ever we need to support our local economy!

Many businesses offer safe pickup and delivery options.

Gift certificates are also available from many businesses that are unable to operate right now.

Discover the local businesses that make our community great. www.LoveNG.ca “We are fortunate to have low COVID numbers in North Grenville, we have an incredible community and an impressive array of local businesses that have worked so hard to serve their customers during unprecedented times. It is now time for us to rally and give them our full support to get through another COVID-19 disruption.”

– Mayor Nancy Peckford.

For more details on the Provincial order visit: https://covid-19.ontario.ca February 4, 2021

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford History

John Johnston -Lockmaster

Residents concerned over lack of public engagement

by Hilary Thomson

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Merrickville locks and Blockhouse, c. 1839. © LAC C-512 by the Merrickville & District Historical Society Most of us know of the career of Sergeant John Johnston who lived with his family in the Blockhouse while serving as Merrickville Lockmaster.

Together Johnston and his son, Mathew, served for over 70 years as Merrickville lockmasters.

As a sergeant with the Royal Sappers and Miners, he had overseen the construction of the eight Rideau Canal locks at Bytown.

The Royal Sappers and Miners consisted of skilled miners, stone cutters and masons, blacksmiths, carpenters and construction experts used by the British military throughout the world for construction projects. On the Rideau, their job was to provide skilled assistance and supervision to the outside contractors who were hired to do the actual canal and lock constructions. For general labour, these contractors employed itinerant French Canadian and Irish immigrant labourers, and a considerable part of the supervising job of the Sappers was to keep this potentially unruly crew under control.

But Johnston was not destined to remain in Canada at this time. As the Rideau locks were being completed in 1831, the work of the Royal Sappers here was completed and many of the men and officers serving here were February 4, 2021

decommissioned. A number were offered the option of returning to England , or receiving land grants and possible employment in the canal area. Many chose the latter. Of the 23 lockmasters initially serving the Rideau, nearly half were former Sappers who had chosen this option. It is not clear whether Johnston had this option but, in any case, in 1831, Johnston, man of duty, instead of remaining in Canada, accepted the posting to Corfu in the Mediterranean.

Following completion of his assignment there and subsequent retirement from military service, he applied for the position on the Rideau which had eluded him, and due to his excellent reputation was promised "the first available position". He did not have long to wait.

He returned to Canada in 1835 with his thirty year old wife Margret, his daughter Mary Ann and three sons, to become Lockmaster, not at Merrickville, but the isolated and problem ridden Hog's Back locks and dam, outside of Bytown. The Hog's Back site was a desolate outpost which did not even have a defensible lockmaster's house until 1838. Compare this to the views of the already established, bustling and growing village of Mirick’s Mills.

At that time, a man named William Mitchell, a retired Sapper Colonel,

was Merrickville Lockmaster. About a year later in the fall of 1836, for reasons unclear, Johnston and Mitchell exchanged positions, Mitchell going to Hog's Back and Johnston, taking over the much more strategically and commercially important post at Merrickville. In doing so, he became the third holder of the lockmaster title at Merrickville, the first being a carpenter, Thomas Buck, one of the few non-Sappers recommended by Colonel By for a lockmaster position. Johnston, however, was the first to take up residence in the Blockhouse, and it would serve as his base for the next thirtythree years.

From his appointment in 1836, John Johnston served as lockmaster until his death on August 24, 1869. In the Blockhouse museum, you may see his sword and watch, symbols of his proud military tradition, and his punctual attention to duty. Johnston was 78 when he died and his obituary, published in the Brockville Recorder & Times of September 2, 1869, described him as a man "who performed the duties required of him with extraordinary fidelity and singleness of purpose." But, if you look carefully, you may see his tombstone in the Union cemetery which describes his life even more elegantly and simply.

Some residents of Merrickville-Wolford are concerned about the lack of engagement council has had with the public over the last several months. When the pandemic was declared in March, the Village was one of the first municipalities in Ontario to enact their Municipal Emergency Control Group, whose task it is to make operational decisions for the municipality as it related to the health and safety of residents.

According to a statement from Mayor Doug Struthers at the last council meeting on January 25, “Under the steady hand of Council’s governance, and the guidance of our local Health Unit, the Municipal Emergency Control Group continues to make difficult operational decisions to maintain service levels while keeping everyone safe.”

One of the decisions that the municipality made was to restrict public access to in-person council meetings.

Throughout the Spring, most members of council were participating in meetings via teleconference, with only the Mayor and some staff in the council chambers. Council returned to in-person meetings in July. Meeting recordings have been uploaded to the municipal website directly after each meeting since March to ensure transparency.

But Merrickville resident, Katie Dickie, says this is not enough. She believes that council meetings should be conducted virtually, to allow residents to interact with council in a seamless but safe way. “Essentially, right now, because this council has voted to stay in-person and do the audio uploads, they have literally locked people out from being able to participate in council meetings.”

Katie is particularly concerned about this with the upcoming budget. At the last council meeting, Mayor Struthers made it clear that they would do their best to engage with the public during the budget process; but, depending on the status of the pandemic, it might just have to be uploaded to the website 10

for the public review. “This is not an open process,” Katie says. “There is no indication that council will reach out to the public for input.”

As the current chair of the Recreation, Health and Wellness Committee, Katie is also concerned that Committees of Council have not been allowed to resume their duties.

“There’s so much that my Health, Recreation and Wellness group could be doing and should be doing. The rink being a perfect example. The committees haven’t been able to table any issues, or move on, or be able to plan for the Spring, because we’re literally being told that we can’t.”

Both the Library Board and the Police Services Board have been given special permission to meet virtually, and Katie doesn’t understand why the same protocol can’t be extended to the advisory committees of council. “I’m just wondering why advisory boards were not included at that time, or even canvassed to see if we could have the capability to be able to meet virtually.”

While residents who listen to the council recordings are welcome to contact council or staff with questions or concerns, Katie says many of her questions have fallen on deaf ears. “I have four unanswered emails with regards to going virtual and my committee.”

The topic of the council advisory committees was on the agenda at the last council meeting. CAO Doug Robertson presented a report to council outlining the status of each committees and stating that having the committees resume, even virtually, would put a strain on municipal resources. “Council may wish to consider that the resumption of advisory committee meetings will further strain resources which are vitally needed at this time to preserve public safety,” the report states.

Mayor Struthers acknowledged the value of advisory committees at the council meeting, and said there would be value in reaching out to the committees to see if they might have the capacity to meet virtually or via teleconference. Deputy Mayor

Michael Cameron agreed, adding that committees are an essential part of the municipal process. “We’re going through this pandemic and, in the end, we want to come out a little bit ahead of when we came into it,” he said. “By holding these people back, and not allowing that input, I think it’s going to end up hindering us more than it’s going to help us.”

There was some concern around the council table about bandwidth, and members of the committees having the capacity to meet virtually. Councillor Molloy suggested they open the council chambers up to committees, as council has been using the room to meet and there is enough space for social distancing. Councillor Foster was dead set against that idea, saying that it was putting residents at unnecessary risk. “I’m not even comfortable being in this room, to be quite honest with you, with the number of people in this room,” he said. “Right now, we’re on the edge of the maximum number of people you can have for an outdoor gathering, let alone indoor.”

It is not clear why the Village of Merrickville-Wolford hasn’t embraced virtual meetings like so many other surrounding municipalities. Although these meetings aren’t always open to the public, they are often live steamed through YouTube, and residents are welcome to send in questions before or during the meeting via email, to encourage public engagement. “Council needs to get out from underneath their rock that they’ve been under for a while,” Katie says.

“Things have been status quo, and that’s great, but we need phone numbers, we need virtual, we need technology. We need to move into the century that we are all living in here, so that we can become inclusive and we can participate.”

Council has directed staff to reach out to the committees to see if they can figure out a way to resume meetings safely. A report will be brought back to council at the next meeting.

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VILLAGE OF MERRICKVILLE-WOLFORD NOTICE OF CONSIDERATION OF ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT Subject Lands

Lots 178 – 189, 164 – 168, Lots 1 – 4, 7 – 10, Block 9, Lots 1, 2, 9, 10, Block 15, Part Lot 8, Block 15, Lots 1, 9 Block 16, Part of Herbert Street, Registered Plan 6, in the geographic Village of Merrickville, Village of Merrickville-Wolford, as shown on the attached Key Map (Merrickville Grove Subdivision).

Council Meeting

The Zoning By-law Amendment for the above noted property will be considered at the regular Village Council meeting scheduled for February 22, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. in Council Chambers located at 317 Brock Street West in the Village of Merrickville-Wolford.

Purpose and Effect The purpose of this notice is to provide the public with the chance to review and comment on the revised zoning by-law amendment that was presented at the statutory public meeting for the zoning by-law amendment held on March 10, 2020.

The effect of the amendment is to: 1) Rezone a portion of the subject lands from Development (D) to Residential Two - Exception Three (R2-3) and Residential Two - Exception Four (R2-4) to permit the development of seventeen (17) townhome blocks. All provisions of the R2 zone will apply to the R2-3 zone with the exception of lot frontage which will be reduced from 6.0 metres to 5.5 metres. All provisions of the R2 zone will apply to the R2-4 zone with the exception of minimum lot frontage reduced from 6.0 metres to 5.5. metres and the minimum lot area which will be reduced from 180 m2 to 155 m2.

2) Rezone a portion of the subject lands from Development (D) to Residential Three (R3-1) to permit the development of a low-rise apartment building with a maximum of 3 stories and a maximum height of 11 m.

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GIFT BASKET DRAW

Next week's Gift Basket is sponsored by Westerra Homes.

Order a meal, from either Catered Affairs or Dial a Chef for the week of February 8, and your name will be placed in a hat for the chance to win a $100 gift basket.

One draw for each Business.

3) Rezone a portion of the subject lands from Development (D) to Open Space (O) for the purpose of parkland and stormwater management practices.

All other provisions of the Zoning By-law shall apply.

Additional Information and Notice of Decision PLEASE BE ADVISED that additional information regarding the Zoning By-law amendment is available for inspection on the Village Municipal Office web site. Any person or public body wishing to provide comments to Council on the Zoning By-law Amendment, prior to Council making a decision, are encouraged to provide written comments no later than February 15, 2021. If a person or public body did not provide comments at the public meeting or prior to the Council of Village of Merrickville-Wolford making a decision on the proposed Zoning By-law amendment, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of the Village of Merrickville-Wolford to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal.

If you wish to be notified of the decision of the Village Council in respect of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to: Mr. Douglas Robertson, CAO/Clerk Village of Merrickville-Wolford 317 Brock Street West P.O. Box 340 Merrickville, ON K0G 1N0 NOTE: One of the purposes of the Planning Act is to provide for planning processes that are open, accessible, timely and efficient. Accordingly, all written submissions, documents, correspondence, e-mails or other communications (including your name and address) form part of the public record and will be disclosed/made available by the Municipality to such persons as the Municipality sees fit, including anyone requesting such information. Accordingly, in providing such information, you shall be deemed to have consented to its use and disclosure as part of the planning process.

Dated at the Village of Merrickville-Wolford this 29th day of January 2021.

Mr. Douglas Robertson, CAO/Clerk Village of Merrickville-Wolford 317 Brock Street West, P.O. Box 340 Merrickville, ON K0G 1N0

VILLAGE OF MERRICKVILLE-WOLFORD KEY MAP

WE NEED HEROES

ACT NOW the north grenville

TIMES Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

Location of Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment February 4, 2021

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Housing needed for Merrickville’s second refugee family

Haifaa enjoying winter at Murphy’s Mountain toboggan hill in Merrickville. temporary housing in an Air

by Hilary Thomson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter B&B close by. “We have been able to rent a cottage, Rideau Bridge to Can- but we only have it until the ada is looking for the com- end of March,” Audrey says. munity’s help in finding a The Alabouds have been permanent home for their fitting in well in Merrickmost recent refugee fam- ville and would like to stay ily. The Alabouds arrived in the community, if posin Merrickville on October sible. Sham is enjoying go7, 2020, after experiencing ing to school at Merrickville heavy delays in their travel Public School, and Odai plans due to COVID-19. got his drivers license and At first, Rideau Bridge to has been busy looking for a Canada member, Audrey job in his field. Their main Bridge, opened her home concern right now is finding up to Odai, Haifaa and somewhere to live, which is their two children Sham (4) proving to be a huge chaland Zain (1), but they were lenge. “We’re getting to the eventually able to find them point that we might have to

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Karen will test your hearing for free and determine if hearing aids are appropriate. If they are, she will detail your options from a wide selection of manufacturers… not just one. Karen will recommend what is best suited for you, your lifestyle and your hearing loss.

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Welcome to the Iron Forge

Culture & the Arts (MOCA), and the Merrickville and District Chamber of Commerce came together to hold an auction. The Lion’s Club gave Christmas presents to both Syrian families, and The Yellow Canoe raffled off a yule log to raise funds.

“It has been such a great community effort,” Audrey says.

If Rideau Bridge to Canada can’t find a place for the Alabouds to live, they will have to start looking in the city. “We’ll have to look in Ottawa, which would be a disappointment for everybody, because they really do love the whole rural aspect, and just the community in general,” Audrey says. “It’s just been so wonderful.”

Rideau Bridge to Canada would love to hear from anyone who has any leads on a two- or three-bedroom home or apartment in the North Grenville or Merrickville-Wolford area.

Anyone with information can contact Audrey at 613266-4825, or ajkbridge@ aol.com.

change communities, because we just can’t find any place to rent,” Audrey says.

Odai is the brother of Ataa Al Aboud, who is the mother of the first family that Rideau Bridge to Canada sponsored in 2017. Ataa, her husband Saleh Erhayel, and their four children live in Merrickville and go to school and work in Kemptville, so it would be great if the Alabouds could find a place in either community so they could stay close to their family. “None of them ever expected to see family ever again,” Audrey says.

“Up until two years ago, no one thought that this would ever be able to happen.”

It has been amazing how the community has rallied around Rideau Bridge to Canada to support the Alabouds. Because of COVID-19, they were unable to hold their usual fundraisers; but many local organizations and businesses came up with unique ways to raise money. The Merrickville Artists Guild (MAG), Merrickville Organization for

Come to Kemptville Hearing Clinic where we always provide straightforward and honest hearing healthcare.

Karen McCallion, Hearing Instrument Specialist Brooke Barkley, Hearing Instrument Dispenser

The Voice of North Grenville

Karen and Brooke will exhaust all efforts to get you the maximum funding towards your hearing aids. At our clinic, our everyday prices are the same as some companies “limited time” discounts.

We believe your hearing needs should be managed by professionals who will openly listen to your concerns and create a plan to maximize your comfort, care and success with hearing aids.

Register online or call your local school

www.ucdsb.on.ca 12

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The North Grenville Times

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Vipers 5. Cards with 1 symbol 9. Haul with a tackle 14. Salt Lake state 15. A young male horse 16. Quickly 17. Recorder 19. Artificial waterway 20. Catkin 21. Disciplinarian 23. Pleads 25. Equip 28. Child 29. Directed 32. A woman chaperon 33. Record (abbrev.)

34. Brownish purple 35. Wings

36. Candid 38. Violent 39. Mousses 40. Effeminate 41. Violet 43. S 44. European peak 45. Detained 46. Greatcoats 48. Curative 50. Equestrian 54. Vestibule 55. Additive 57. Deservedly receives 58. Brother of Jacob 59. Biblical garden 60. Delete 61. Transmit 62. Classify

OFA reflects on impacts of sudden loss on farm communities

DOWN 1. Emanation 2. Flower stalk 3. Use a beeper 4. Tibiae 5. Perform 6. Girdle 7. Gladden 8. Afflicted 9. Supported 10. Opaque gems 11. Diminish 12. Stigma 13. Snake-like fish 18. Mug 22. Garbanzo 24. Snapped up 25. Proverb 26. Whines 27. Knells 29. Not smooth in texture 30. French school 31. Faked out an opponent 33. Beam 34. Leeches 37. Repeats 42. Extreme 44. Reluctant 45. A hussar's jacket 46. Portents 47. Stimulate 48. Lion sound 49. Tropical American wildcat 51. Prank 52. Always 53. Lease 54. Charge 56. Muck

by Brent Royce, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Loss has the power to shake a whole community.

Like a pebble in a pond, the waves ripple across the water and the effects can be felt by everyone near. In rural communities, when someone is lost to suicide, a direct impact is felt by many people.

From nearby family and friends, to neighbours and acquaintances, to stakeholders across the entire sector, suicide has the power to send shockwaves and cripple a community.

My community has recently said goodbye to members who have lost their lives to suicide. This has left everyone feeling shocked, sad, and wishing there was more that could have been done. Now more than ever, farmers feel the stress of pushing through everyday personal issues, coping with the loneliness of living remotely, and feeling the pressure to maintain a business with so many changing protocols stemming from the pandemic Oftentimes, we see farmers push their mental health to the backburner.

Our custom as farmers is to take care and prioritize our livestock, crops and families first. Many of us have been conditioned to believe that talking about our mental health struggles makes us weak or less of a farmer.

Yes, our community is strong and resilient, but we are not superhuman. We need to work collectively to end this stigma. For those struggling with mental health, having someone to

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy

Hard

The Voice of North Grenville

Medium

talk to may be the key to saving their life.

As we continue into this new year, we are seeing too many lives being lost to mental health. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) believes that now, more than ever, it's time to break down the farmer stereotypes and bring conversations about suicidal thoughts and feelings to the forefront.

People experiencing suicidal thoughts are often in great mental anguish and believe the world around them would be better without their presence. They start believing they are a burden and slowly begin losing faith in themselves.

Without proper resources and services in place, many are left to deal with their dark thoughts alone – and during a pandemic, those who are most vulnerable are at serious risk.

As we proceed through another demanding year, the focus on work ethic and striving for consistency in a world that’s currently unstable can result in missing warning signs of stress and burnout, which can leave farmers both physically and mentally depleted. It can also be difficult to separate our identity as a person from that of a farmer, which makes setbacks in the farm business feel personally devastating.

In the past few weeks, my daughter has been collecting data from farmers on mental health for a school survey as a grade 12 project. Out of 239 participants, 80.8% stated they believe there continues to be a stigma around mental health, while 32.2% said they are uncomfortable discussing the topic with others. This stigma prevents farmers from seeking out and obtaining appropriate resources. These results suggest that further conversations, acceptance, sup-

port and guidance are still needed so people don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed when they’re struggling.

The Farmers’ Toolbox initiative in my region features testimonials in video clips that tell the story of farmers moving from hopelessness to reaching the point of seeking help. Resources like this one, created by the Listowel Agricultural Society, help put a face on this crucial topic.

Deciding to ask for help is only the first step. Many rural communities feel secluded from the necessary supports and services. My daughter's study showed that 34.7% of farmers were not sure if there were resources available to them, and 17.2% believed they did not have access to mental health resources.

OFA wants to ensure you and your loved ones have the resources necessary to cope with struggles and crises to help prevent more lives from being lost.

If you or someone you know is in distress and needs help, there are people and resources available.

Please reach out for 24/7 support by calling the Ontario Mental Health Line at ConnexOntario. Reach them at 1-866-531-2600, or use their online chat function. For additional resources, visit the ConnexOntario website, or ofa. on.ca/mental-health.

A loss can devastate an entire community, but it can also help bring perspective about how and when to open up about these important conversations. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to please seek help today.

There is always a reason to keep moving forward. Just know that you are valued, loved and not alone.

Solution to last week’s Crossword

SEND IN YOUR CLASSIFIED to classified@ngtimes.ca

BUY AND SELL LOCALLY FIRST TEN WORDS FREE

February 4, 2021

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The North Grenville Times

SERVICES

SEND IN YOUR CLASSIFIED to classified@ngtimes.ca

HANDYMAN RETIRED CARPENTER Renovations, kitchens, SERVICES bathrooms, additions, Painting, Demolition, decks, home repair.

Drywall, Call George at Carpentry, etc 613 462 7637 Bill at 613-774-2922

BUY AND SELL LOCALLY FIRST TEN WORDS FREE

FOR SALE

Winter tires 225 / 70 R 16, on rims, very good condition, altimax arctic $ 500, 613 258 4457

Cedar, Spruce and Pine Posts for sale. Call Jim 613.258.3561

The Voice of North Grenville

Indoor and outdoor storage for vehicles, boats and RVs. Call Jon at 613-227-3650 HP-Compaq Notebook $20 email jgwalnut@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Hunters Paradise Deer and Turkeys Bow and Bkack Powder Season Call 613.258.3561

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

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Shannon Lever

Marketing Consultant

Phone 613.791.8317 Email: shannonlever@ndtimes.ca United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Notice of Project and On-line Public Information Centre Municipal Class Environmental Assessment North Augusta Storm Sewer Replacement / Extension The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville (UCLG) has retained Ainley Group to complete detail design activities and to undertake the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) process for storm sewer replacement and extension within sections of County Road 6 and County Road 15 in North Augusta. The project limits are identified as County Road 6 from 0.2 km south of County Road 15 to County Road 15 and County Road 15 from 0.16 km north of County Road 6 to 0.13 km south of County Road 6. The location is shown on the provided key map.

The project is following a pre-approved planning process for a Schedule ‘A+’ undertaking in accordance with the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment document (MCEA), which applies to municipal infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, water, and wastewater projects. Schedule ‘A+’ projects are pre-approved under the MCEA and may proceed to construction, pending funding and agency approvals.

Public and agency consultation is an important component of the MCEA process. An On-line Public Information Centre (PIC) is being held to provide additional information and answer questions regarding the project. The PIC will follow an ‘on-line’ format with material posted and available for viewing and comment from January 25, 2021 until February 16, 2021 on the UCLG website at https://www.leedsgrenville.com.

Comments received will be reviewed and responded to when appropriate.

You are encouraged to contact the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville or the Project Consultant by February 16, 2021 if you require additional information regarding this project. If you require additional information please contact the following.

Mr. Bill Guy Manager of Engineering and Operations, Public Works United Counties of Leeds and Grenville 25 Central Ave. W., Suite 100 Brockville, Ontario K6V 4N6

Mr. Ken Wetzel, CD, P.Eng., M.Eng. Consultant Project Manager Ainley Group 2724 Fenton Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1T 3T7

Phone: Fax: Email:

Phone: (613) 862-5843 Fax (613) 822-1573 Email: wetzel@ainleygroup.com

Comments and information regarding this study are being collected to assist in meeting the requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act. This information will be maintained on file for use during the project in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O., 1990, c.F.31. All comments, with the exception of personal information, will become part of the public record. If you have any accommodation requirements in order to participate in this project please contact one of the project team members listed above.

February 4, 2021

Rideau Community Health Services invites proposals for Janitorial Services in Merrickville, Smiths Falls, Brockville and Perth.

Proposals must be submitted as per the RFP no later than 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 24th, 2021.

Interested parties must visit the careers section of www.RideauCHS.ca for full details.

The Food Corner

County Road 6 and County Road 15 within North Augusta are urban residential roads.

The project undertaking includes the replacement and / or extension of storm sewers including storm sewer outlet relocation within the project limits.

(613) 342-3840 ext. 2426 (613) 342-2101 bill.guy@uclg.on.ca

Request for Proposal (RFP)

14

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Last August, I gave you the recipe for Peanut Butter Pie. With today’s thermostat sitting at -16C with a windchill of -26, I believe that a strong cup of coffee and a nice, warm slice of peanut butter bread (mm…cake) might help, especially since we are now over the January diet. Our family has an addiction to peanut butter and we thank our lucky stars that none of us are allergic to peanuts or peanut products. Even Shine – short for Moonshine – my very own Australian Shepherd, enjoys her piece of toast and peanut butter in the morning. So, you can place this recipe among the other breads and cakes I have posted here in the past year.

Peanut Butter Bread (or Cake) Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ¾ cup creamy peanut butter ½ cup butter (softened) 1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract 2/3 cup milk, preferably whole Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Spray a metal or glass loaf pan with oil.

Combine the flour and baking powder in a bowl and set aside.

In another bowl, beat the peanut butter and butter with sugars with a mixer at low speed until blended, scraping the bowl often with a spatula. Increase speed to medium-high. Beat until creamy, about 3 minutes, occasionally scraping the bowl.

Reduce the speed back to low and add the eggs, one at a time, beating well between. Also beat in the vanilla.

Alternately add the flour mixture and the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just till smooth.

Spoon the batter into pan and spread evenly. Bake for about an hour or until a tester comes out clean.

Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Then, loosen the bread from the side of the pan and invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

If you want to get completely silly, you can glaze the cooled bread with a chocolate glaze (just Google it). And don’t forget that cup of coffee (how about a flavoured bean for a change?).

Kindly let me know how it turned out at pcormier@ranaprocess.com. www.ngtimes.ca

cl ng

The North Grenville Times

POSITION AVAILABLE We are looking for a mature salesperson.

Sales and Optical experience preferred.

Must work well with others in a busy environment.

Part-time hours: 20-30 hrs per week Job Types: Part-time, Permanent Salary: From $15.00 per hour Email resume: info@laurieropticalkemptville.com

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES We currently have two positions: Designer with experience, Garden center / Greenhouse staff

Practice random acts of kindness

The successful candidates will have: Valid drivers licence, Able to work all holidays, Two weekends a month, Full time hours, Multi task, Have interpersonal skills and proper phone manors.

Pay will vary with experience, decided after a three month probation period.

There are TFSA contributions.

Design experience and or Plant knowledge is a must.

Please email resumes to gen@kemptvilleflowers.net

Hanki Mac

The Voice of North Grenville

CR 43 bridge to remain an obstacle

by David Shanahan When the project for expanding County Road 43 running through Kemptville was being discussed, one of the exciting possibilities talked about was the new bridge that would be built over the South Branch River. Ever since the bridge was erected in the 1950's, it has prevented the passage of most boats using the Rideau Canal from accessing Kemptville. With CR 43 becoming a 4-lane highway, it seemed that a new bridge could be built higher, allowing for the thousands of boats exploring the Rideau Canal each year to venture up the South Branch.

But now it seems that that option has been dismissed.

In 2010, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville completed a Schedule ‘C’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) to facilitate improvements to County Road 43 and docu-

mented the process in the Four Lane Upgrade of County Road 43, Kemptville Environmental Study Report (ESR) (AECOM, 2010).The ESR examined the effects of the proposed expansion of CR 43 and came to the conclusion that: “Transport Canada has indicated that the current height of the County Road (CR) 43 Bridge is acceptable and given the other constraints on the navigability of Kemptville Creek [should be the South Branch River], raising the clearance of the CR 43 Bridge would appear to have limited benefit. Therefore, the TSC (Technical Steering Committee) deemed that the benefits did not offset the impacts associated with the higher clearances and the TSC decided to remove the alternatives with bridge clearances greater than the existing 3.35m.”

Danielle Kelly, the Environmental Planner & Construction Administration Lead with the construction

consultants, AECOM, informed local resident, Dr. Bill Adams, in an email on January 28, that: “Given that the environmental impacts have not changed, the option of a higher clearance has not been included in the current detailed design”.

This indicates a lack of vision in terms of the municipality’s new Tourism Strategy, published just over a month ago, which contains ideas about using the waterways of North Grenville and even imagines the expansion of Le Boat operations here.

Dr. Adams has raised this issue also. “My question is whether this decision took into account the major long term implication on Kemptville as a tourist destination and for residents to create a true high quality town centre based on the historical South Branch rather than the tawdry commercial Hwy 43 developments.”

He also points out that other towns on the Rideau

Canadians continue to receive guide dogs during the pandemic

Jan 5/2007 - Jan 21/2021

Run free Big Hank Toady hunt on the river bank, Play in the snow, you bad ass hound, Blast to Libby, or the bush, man we covered some ground.

You loved the beaver pond, boat rides and snacks.

Right now my heart has some pretty big cracks.

I'll see you! Your spirit will be out in force.

Forever roaming the Old Golf Course!

Love Mommy, Daddy and your family xoxo

GIFT BASKET DRAW

February 4, 2021

Next week's Gift Basket is sponsored by Westerra Homes.

Order a meal, from either Catered Affairs or Dial a Chef for the week of February 8, and your name will be placed in a hat for the chance to win a $100 gift basket.

One draw for each Business.

Michael Hodgins with guide dog Tosca and retired guide dog Nellie Ottawa. The state-of-the-art facility only enhances their service, and provides an even better home for the comfort of these incredible future guide dogs as they undergo training.

All of CGDB’s funding comes from Canada, and is then spent here in Canada as they fulfill their mission.

They are a national charity that heavily relies on donations and does not receive any government funding.

Despite the numerous unforeseen challenges, Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind continued to successfully place guide dogs in 2020. This past year, they matched and partnered guide dog teams across the country, from British Columbia all the way to New Brunswick.

Understanding the need for their services, CGDB only

Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind [CGDB] marked its 37th anniversary on January 12, 2021. CGDB is proud to have successfully created and supported over 900 guide dog teams over the years.

They are a proudly Canadian organization that provides Canadian bred and trained guide dogs, changing the lives of Canadians by improving their safety, freedom, and independence. Their own well-established breeding program ensures a quantity and quality of dogs suitable to the job, and enables the continuance of producing and training guide dogs during the pandemic. 2020 also marked an exciting milestone, as Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind opened their new kennel on the property of their National Training Centre in 15

restricted placement of new teams for the first two months of the pandemic, while they strived to put in new procedures to keep everyone safe.

They continue to update their procedures as new information becomes available, and adhere to, or exceed, public health guidelines and laws.

Thanks to thirty-seven years of proven success, Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind has been able to continue with its mandate and ensure that Canadians who require guide dogs can still get them.

Michael Hodgins, from Shawville, Quebec, and his guide dog Tosca, are one of the teams who graduated in 2020. Michael says, “I’m in a white world, not a dark world. Everything’s white to me, I have no focus. I can

system, such as Perth, are fully accessible to boaters of all kinds, but Kemptville is being left out in that regard.

Others in a position to know, have told the Times that the initiative here really rests with the United Counties, as CR 43 is a County Road, and, although they have invested heavily in the expansion of the highway, it may well be that the added cost of raising the new bridge to a height that would allow access to boats would be simply too high.

Of course, the next issue would be how to deal with the bridge at Bridge Street, which would also add as an obstacle. However, it has been suggested that Curry Park could be developed as a marina, with easy access by the trail system and Clothier Street East to the downtown.

That, for now at least, seems an irrelevant point, assuming the CR43 bridge will continue to be the main obstacle.

see some shades of colours, but it’s like someone threw a white blanket over my face.

When I put the harness on my guide dog, it’s like flicking a light switch. If I didn’t have a guide dog, I’d be straining going around with a cane, trying to feel my way, or walking on someone’s elbow, and so, this way, I can go out by myself and I don’t have to hang on to that person’s elbow. We’re partners, and Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind has given me independence.”

There are other qualified Canadians like Michael Hodgins who are currently awaiting their guide dog, and Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind is eager to serve them, but they need your support to do so. Whether you need to apply for a guide dog, or would like to make a donation, please visit guidedogs. ca for more information.

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Sustainability: Local Food

by Joselyn Morley The topic of sustainability can be overwhelming. It's easy to get tangled up in big ideas, and overwhelming concepts. Trying to live a greener life, with less waste, is tough. Consumerism says more is better. Debt is encouraged to fuel production, to keep the economy functioning. We have already heard about how much we will all need to spend in order to kickstart the economy after the pandemic. Our lives revolve around a culture of disposable products.

Consumables. Fast fashion.

Products that cost more to fix than to replace. If you want to change something, where do you start?

Maybe start with food.

We all need to eat. Catch phrases, like locavore and 100 Mile Diet, popped up several years ago. The idea behind 100 Mile Diet is that you source your food from within a hundred miles of your home. And that doesn't mean having a Loblaws within a hundred miles!

Locavore is a trendy way to say that you value local food and go out of your way to source it. Our society has become used to being able to get anything we want to eat, at any time of year, such as tomatoes and asparagus in January. Or to get foods that we could never grow here with our short season and cold winters, like avocados, mangoes, and oranges.

Focusing on local food represents a huge shift in thinking, and then following up the shift in thinking with a conscious change in behaviour. Living in Eastern Ontario requires a very conscious shift in thinking if you want to prioritise local food. No one expects you to wander outside in January and stumble upon an apple, a head of lettuce, or a potato.

Why do we care about where our food comes from?

Why care when we can work, make money, drive to a supermarket, buy whatever we want (or what we can afford), go home, and make whatever we want.

Well, there are a lot of reasons. Supply chains aren't always secure. Think of all February 4, 2021

the weird things that seemed to vanish off store shelves as the pandemic progressed.

One break in the supply chain, one factory, plant, greenhouse, or distribution hub closes down, and we're scrambling to find things we never thought we would miss.

The pandemic has shone the light on some of the biggest issues around supply chains and the need to look for local sources. When people got scared, they bought things in a panic, often creating a perceived shortage of some product (think toilet paper!). When it was time to harvest fruit and vegetables in southern Ontario, but the people from other countries who we rely on to pick the food either couldn't get to Canada, or were quarantined, food rotted in the fields and in the trees.

Another reason to care is the environment. Crops grown in California and destined for the North American market are often the foods that take a huge amount of water, such as almonds or avocados. California imports water to satisfy our demand for avocados and almond milk. Trucks, boats, planes, trains, transport food all over the world. Our February lettuce travels across a continent, using massive amounts of fossil fuels and creating huge amounts of pollution.

Another reason to care is taste and nutrition. Tomato varieties, over the years, have been designed to withstand travel rather than to taste good. There is more vitamin C in a tomato from your garden, or the farmers market, than in the one picked green several days ago. Once you start tasting real tomatoes from local gardens in August, you won't be happy with the rock-hard January offerings. A wellknown gardening YouTuber, Jessica Sowards, says that a winter tomato tastes like disappointment.

Changing the way we think about food makes us think about how things grow, as well as when and where they grow. It requires us to learn about what actually grows in our area, and when. Asparagus grows very well in this region, but not in September. Turnips store well over the winter, but you have to know how to store them. It means planning meals around what is in season, or what you can buy in winter that didn't travel

across the continent. It takes some education.

It's not a matter of just individual choice, although consumers do have power to influence suppliers with their purchasing power. The majority of our current food chain is based on the belief that we need avocados in January. If consumers believe that, suppliers will do their best to fulfil that demand. Even the foods that we do grow locally, that can overwinter with a bit of effort, often come from across the continent, rather than from our own province. Carrots, turnips, potatoes, rutabagas, cabbages, amongst others, can all grow plentifully and affordably in Ontario, and stay viable through the winter. Nevertheless, our food chain relies on imported food rather than locally grown.

Local food needs to be accessible. Not everyone has a garden to grow carrots, or a cellar to store them. Growing food takes land, and land is expensive. Growing food takes knowledge. A lot of knowledge, about how to grow and store local food, has left with the people when they packed up their small acreages and moved to the cities. People who have the knowledge need to teach those who don't know.

Food can be grown in cities and towns. The irony is that we are living with so many thousands of acres of agricultural land around, yet we lack access to land on which to grow food.

I keep talking about vegetables. Our need to seek out and secure local food chains applies to animals too. Right now, as an example, there is a shortage of viable options for processing meat. Abattoir businesses are reminding people to book their processing now for the fall. The demand for abattoir services far exceeds the availability.

It feels overwhelming at times, especially after reading this laundry list of all that is wrong with the system. There are people out there, though, who are seeking out local food and access to land to grow food. There are food share programs and farmers markets, roadside stands, and egg sellers.

Kemptville has a facebook page called Local Food Initiatives. North Dundas will have one shortly. Jump on, and share how you access local food and what it means to you.

The Voice of North Grenville

Local Vaccine Status

by the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Health Unit The Health Unit’s COVID-19 Distribution and Administration Roll Out Plan helps facilitate the efficient and effective delivery of the COVID-19 vaccine in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark and aligns with the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan.

We are not taking appointments for COVID-19 vaccine immunizations – please see below for update.

What was done last week?

Continued to roll out stage 1 of the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution and Administration Roll Out Plan.

Due to significant shortage of the Pfizer vaccine supply, the Ministry of Health directed Health Units to only provide vaccine to the residents of Long-Term Care Homes and High Risk Retirement Homes* at this time. Staff and Designated Essential Caregivers have been put on hold until the vaccine supply stabilizes. Timelines are unknown at this time.

Completed three more on-site clinics at local Long-Term Care Homes (2 in Leeds & Grenville and 1 in Lanark). These clinics were successfully done in partnership with many local health care providers and the staff of the home.

From January 18 to January 24: 466 individuals received the vaccine this week.

A total of 937 individuals have received a vaccine (either through the Kingston Health Sciences Centre clinic or one of our mobile clinics from January 13 till now) What is the plan for this week?

Eight mobile clinics are planned this week in Long-Term Care Homes/High Risk Retirement Homes in our area.

Continue to work with local hospitals, EMS, medical first responders and assessment centre staff to prepare them for Stage 2 of the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution and Administration Roll Out Plan.

What are we working on for next week Waiting to see if we will receive more vaccine. If yes, continue to implement mobile clinics on-site at our local Long-Term Care Homes and High Risk Retirement homes.

Continue to work with local hospitals, ems, medical first responders and assessment centre staff to prepare them for Stage 2 of the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution and Administration Roll Out Plan.

What can I do now?

Get informed visit COVID-19 Protection and Vaccine Stay healthy Follow COVID-19 precautions – wear a mask, keep the 2m/6ft distance from others, follow stay at home order Stay home if sick and contact the Assessment Centres for testing Ensure your other immunizations are up to date Discuss any concerns with your health care provider, here is the link to consent form COVID-19 Vaccine Screening and Consent Form (gov.on.ca) Be patient. It will take time for COVID-19 vaccines to be distributed to everyone in the community. Each group will be specifically identified and notified in advance to plan for vaccination – information will be posted on our website, social media, local media, and through healthcare and community partners – you won’t be missed! *High Risk Retirement Homes are defined as those that are co-located with a long term care home and/or have a formal memory unit within the facility.

For more detailed information and FAQs about the vaccine visit the COVID-19 Protection and Vaccine section of our website.

Baldwin’s Birds

by John Baldwin With the cold weather upon us and garden and window feeders being used like mad, a tip off of owl activity, provided a lovely chance for a brief change of own habitat. Being in a fairly isolated location, and no personal contact with anyone envisaged, my wife and I went to investigate. We did get to see two female Snowy Owls, one at quite a distance, the misty atmospherics making photography very difficult and the other a little bit closer. However, before we got to this location, road-side activity caught our eyes in the form of Snow Buntings. Yes, those little flocks of birds you often disturb, as you drive down the road, are Snow Buntings, which seem to the naked eye to be just another plain old sparrow type looking bird.

Well we actually stopped and took another look and, as you can see, they are a very pretty and striking bird indeed. Of course they are very protectively skittish and always on the move, so any photograph getting of them is quite challenging. My wife, with her less sophisticated camera than mine, with car window open, managed to get a couple of beautiful shots of the flock in flight! What a lovely surprise for both of us! We hope you like them too!

Stay safe and well.

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The Voice of North Grenville

Health Unit advises you to be cautious during cold weather Depleted Soil at the Root of Poor Health We recently wrote about the gut microbiome – the remarkable digestive ecosystem that influences how nutrients and bacteria contribute to weight management, organ function, and even our mental health. But did you know there is a soil microbiome, and that this too affects your health? It turns out, we’ve not taken good care of it.

Perhaps you already worry about the air you breathe and the water you drink. You are, at least, choosing healthy foods that deliver the nutrition you need. You don’t buy processed products, don’t drink soda, and limit salt intake. Maybe you are even vegan, feeling good about both your health and your carbon footprint. But you may need to consult with a farmer, not a doctor, to learn about the risks facing your vegetables.

At its best, good soil is home to worms, beetles, bugs, and untold numbers of microscopic organisms that serve important functions. In life and death, they furnish the soil with nutrients. Their busy work helps the soil absorb and retain water. Some of them help control harmful pests. But farming practices have been unkind to these critters. Relentless tilling of fields and applications of fertilizers have lessened the quality of topsoil across North America. It is dry, unable to hold nutrients or water. It blows away. And the water run-off, polluted with nitrate, a common fertilizer, is a major concern.

Regulatory limits determine acceptable levels of nitrate in public drinking water supplies. But the degradation of groundwater from over-application of nitrogen fertilizers is a major concern to researchers studying human health. A report in the “International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health” warns of a relationship between nitrate ingestion and colorectal cancer, thyroid disease, and neural tube defects, including at water nitrate levels below regulatory limits.

The United Nations considers soil degradation one of the central threats to human health in the coming decades.

For now, studies show that farmed vegetables still provide all the necessary nutrients for good health.

Your practice should be a diet containing the recommended number of servings per day of vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

But there’s also something to be said for turning to natural supplements when you don’t regularly achieve the daily 2.5 to 3 cups of vegetables and 1.5 to 2 cups of fruit. Further, there are notable health benefits to natural supplements.

Take Healing Earth, for example, which offers relief for joint pain associated with osteoarthritis. These vegetable capsules contain humic acid, found in healthy soil as a result of microbial decomposition of plant matter, and MSM, another organic compound that contains sulfur.

Sulfur is sometimes called

The Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit would like to advise everyone to take appropriate precautions during times when temperatures are expected to be extremely cold (daily high of -15C and colder or when the wind chill is -25C or colder).

Check Environment Canada warnings for when to expect cold temperatures.

Cold weather can cause very serious health conditions and even death. Unprotected skin can freeze in as little as 10–30 minutes, and the risk of developing hypothermia is high. During very cold weather, everyone is at risk; however the elderly, infants and children, people taking certain prescription medications, and people with preexisting health conditions

“the forgotten nutrient”, although it is essential for a healthy liver, connective tissues and even stress response.

The earliest descriptions of medical uses for humic acid are found in Sanskrit, Roman, and Chinese texts.

Its chemical nature was determined in the early 1800s.

More recently, the “World Journal of Gastroenterology” published a study that tested the effects of humic acids on microbial communities of the colon. The results showed a 20-30% increase in concentrations of these healthy colonic inhabitants, suggesting an alternative to fecal transplants or probiotics for restore weakened health gut.

A report in the journal “Nutrients” notes MSM “may have clinical applications for arthritis and other inflammatory disorders such as interstitial cystitis, allergic rhinitis, and acute exercise-induced inflammation.”

It’s depressing what’s happening to our natural environment. But there is, at least, some hope that scientists are getting better at explaining the health benefits of mystically revered organic substances like humic acid and MSM, and that convenient and safe products are available on store shelves.

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are in greater danger. There is also an increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia for outdoor workers and people living without adequate heat or shelter.

During these cold temperatures, the Health Unit strongly encourages the public to check on family members, neighbours, or friends who may be isolated, disabled, living alone, or without sufficient shelter and who maybe at greater risk of suffering cold weather related injuries.

Use COVID-19 precautions when checking on others.

During cold weather everyone should take the following precautions: Wear layers of warm dry clothing including a hat, mitts, and clothing to block the wind.

Drink warm, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages.

Cover exposed skin surfaces when outdoors.

Maintain a heated environ-

Healthy Eating for the New Year

by Danielle Labonte, MAN, RD, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit Mindful Eating Mindful eating involves not only being aware of eating habits, but also listening to and respecting the hunger and fullness cues that our bodies send us throughout the day. This means eating when we are hungry and stopping when we are comfortable. When we do this, we are better able to tune into how different foods make us feel, and can use that information to make decisions about what and how we eat in the future. This also helps keep us from getting overhungry, which can make it difficult to eat mindfully

and may result in overeating and feeling uncomfortable.

Some people may have a hard time recognizing their hunger and fullness cues for various reasons; for example, some medications and medical conditions can interfere with our cues, as well as our mood, emotions, and dieting. To begin to get back in tune with our hunger cues, we can think about how we feel physically and emotionally when we are very hungry, a bit hungry, comfortably full and very full. We can also eat more

February 4, 2021

Appointment only.

Call or visit their website to make an appointment Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

mindfully by chewing our food completely before swallowing and taking the time to sit down and really savour the aroma and taste of each bite which helps us to truly enjoy what we are eating. A pleasurable eating environment is also an important part of mindful eating. For example, play relaxing music or decorate your eating area in a way that appeals to you.

For more information, visit our website at www. healthunit.org, connect with us on Facebook and Twitter, or call us at 1-800660-5853.

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North Grenville COVID-19 Assessment Centre Kemptville Campus, 15 Campus Drive Bell Hall Building. Appointments booked manually when patients come to screening kiosk. Upon meeting the guideline criteria, patients are given a time slot ticket and a registration form with an appointment time window.

ment of around 20oC/68oF. Be aware of how your medications or health conditions may increase your risk.

Be aware of the early signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

Be aware of the dangers of using an oven or space heater as a heating device.

Keep a winter driving survival kit in your vehicle and be sure to check the weather and road conditions before you travel.

For more information on how to protect yourself during extreme cold visit the Health Unit website at: www.healthunit.org or http:// emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/ winter/guide.asp.

For specific cold weather questions call the Health Action Line at 1-800-660-5853.

Connect with LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and Twitter for important public health updates.

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BACKYARD ASTRONOMY

Local students are back in school Orion The Hunter

by David Shanahan Following an announcement by Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, elementary and secondary schools in the Eastern Ontario Health Unit have been allowed back to in person learning as of Monday, February 1. This includes students in these School Boards: Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario Conseil des écoles publiques de l'Est de l'Ontario Conseil scolaire de district catholique du Centre-Est de l'Ontario Upper Canada District School Board In his statement, Minister Lecce noted that the province is adding “stronger masking protocols to include grades 1-3, expanding access to targeted asymptomatic testing, and implementing stricter screening protocols."

It was also announced that, in the Health Unit areas affected, before and after school child care programs

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may also resume and emergency child care will end. In the Health Unit areas where schools are continuing with remote learning, before and after school programs continue to be closed and emergency child care remains available to support children of frontline workers.

All schools in the Upper Canada District School Board reopened on Tuesday, February 2.

UCDSB Director of Education, Stephen Silwa, issued a statement on behalf of the Board last Thursday, in which he stated: “As you know, Grade 1-8 students attending UCDSB schools located within the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit region returned to in-person learning on Monday, January 25, 2021 and will continue in this state going forward. Grade 9-12 students attending schools located within the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit will continue with plans to return to inperson learning on Tuesday,

• • • •

Vehicle repairs Class “A” Mechanic Sale of Quality PreOwned Vehicles Flat Bed Tow Truck

February 2, 2021.”

Director Silwa also reiterated that all students in Grades 1-12 are required to wear non-medical or cloth masks indoors at school, including in hallways and during class times, on school transportation and outdoors during recess where students cannot maintain physical distancing. Masking in Kindergarten is optional but encouraged.

In Secondary Schools operated by the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario, in the Eastern Ontario Health Unit region, Grades 9 to 12 and all Special Education Programs reopening was delayed until Wednesday, February 3, as Monday was a planned Professional Development Day, and Tuesday was a scheduled turnaround day in order to prepare for the new quadmester and therefore schools were closed to students.

Elementary Schools and all Grade 7 & 8 students in High Schools reopened on Tuesday, February 2.

• • • • •

by Gary Boyle The Backyard Astronomer For obvious reasons, winter in Canada does not entice people to venture outdoors to stargaze. The nights can be long and cold, but can also be a thing of beauty. Your reward for braving the frosty still of the night is seeing the most iconic constellation of the entire sky. The seven bright suns that form Orion the Hunter is part of the larger picture of a dozen bright winter stars belonging to other nearby constellations.

Of course, we can look through the window from the warmth of our comfy homes; however, to experience the true wintry celestial landscape, bundle up and, if you can, travel to a dark site away from stray light sources on a moonless night. Here, the ghostly silence of the night allows one to hear their own heartbeat. Along with seeing imaginary Taurus the Bull (to the upper right) while battling Orion, look at the beautiful Pleiades star cluster, the heart of the angry bull. Also referred to as the Seven Sister, the Pleiades resides about 450 light-years (ly) from us.

To the upper left of Orion are the Gemini Twins consisting of the bright stars called Pollux (yellowish) and Castor (blue), located

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Renewed funding for rural municipalities for 2021

by David Shanahan

The Ontario Government has announced new funding under the Ontario Community Infrastructure Funding program [OCIF]. Minister for Municipal Affairs and Housing, and local M.P.P., Steve Clark, released the news that municipalities in LeedsGrenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau lakes will be receiving a total of $3.8 million “to support municipalities as they build and repair roads, bridges, water and wastewater infrastructure”.

The funding is being distributed between the fourteen municipalities in the riding, February 4, 2021

with North Grenville getting $299,716.00, the Village of Merrickville-Wolford, $69,742.00, and the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, $1,664,497.00.

In his announcement, Steve Clark said: “I am upholding my commitment to support our local municipalities by creating jobs, attracting economic growth and investment, and making our community the best place to live and grow. This funding will help build and repair roads, bridges, water and wastewater infrastructure in our community.”

The OCIF provides funding for communities with populations under 100,000, along with all rural and north-

ern communities. Municipalities can, if they wish, accumulate their OCIF funding for up to five years to address larger infrastructure projects.

This Fund is really important to smaller and rural municipalities, as it gives them some stability in budgeting, knowing that there will be a predictable source of funding year on year. For some years in the last decade, it seemed that funds like OCIF were going to be phased out, leaving a large hole in municipal finances. But announcements by the province recently have guaranteed continued support, at least in the foreseeable future.

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33 and 51 light-years respectively from us. Use binoculars to locate a beautiful open star cluster catalogued as M35 near the right foot.

Appearing about the size of the full moon, the cluster containing a couple of hundred stars is some 2,800 ly away. Above the Twins is the constellation Auriga the Charioteer. The bright star is named Capella and resided 42 ly away. There are three open star clusters located in the southern part of the constellation. Appearing in a somewhat curved line from left to right, they bear the catalogue numbers M37, M36 and M38. They are all in the 4,200 to 4,500 ly range from us, meaning the starlight from these clusters left around the time the Great Pyramids in Egypt were built.

The winter sky is also where we find the fainter and less dense edge of the Milky Way Galaxy on the left side of Orion. Opposed to the heavy concentration of hundreds of millions of distant stars signifying the centre of the galaxy in the constellation Sagittarius seen in the night sky from in the south from June to October, dark skies are required to see the winter portion of our galaxy.

Focusing now on the main pattern of stars, the hunter is outlined by two stars for his shoulders, two

for his feet, and three in a row for his belt. From the belt, look for the imaginary sword hanging down with a fuzzy-looking object in it. Welcome to an emission nebula called for obvious reasons, The Great Orion Nebula, or simply M42. This stellar nursery is slowly collapsing and condensing pockets of gas and dust in the nebula to eventually form a couple thousand stars. The belt stars from left to right are named Alnitak 817 ly, Alnilam 1976 ly, and Mintaka 916 ly, while the nebula itself is around 1,500 ly away.

Embrace the night sky for all it has to offer, no matter what time of year.

Till next time, clear skies.

Known as “The Backyard Astronomer”, Gary Boyle is an astronomy educator, guest speaker and monthly columnist for the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. He has been interviewed on more than 50 Canadian radio stations and local Ottawa TV. In recognition of his public outreach in astronomy, the International Astronomical Union has honoured him with the naming of Asteroid (22406) Garyboyle. Follow him on Twitter: @astroeducator or his website: www. wondersofastronomy.com.

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TIMES Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

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613.860.2539 STORE HOURS

www.dialachef.ca Valentine Dinner

Sunday February 14 BOOK EARLY! A special dinner with food supposedly known for their aphrodisiac effect… Although, if I cannot guaranty the results, I can guaranty a very good dinner.

Fennel and oysters velouté Seared beef tenderloin, Ginger & Madeira demi-glace Mushroom stuffed artichoke hearts, glazed carrots, honey cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes Gianduja chocolate and pistachio terrine, custard sauce Now the question is: Who will get out of bed to do the dishes? $90.00 per couple plus HST and delivery.

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Valentine’s Day Menu

Saturday Feb 13th & Sunday Feb 14th 12- 4pm $75.00 per couple. Preorder by Wed Feb 9th. Child size mac n cheese available $10.00 or $40 for 4 SOUP: Roasted Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato With Toasted Pepitas & Herb Oil SALAD: Heart Beet Salad With Local Greens, Pickled Beets, Pomegranate Pearls & Green Goddess Dressing MAIN: Choice of Herb roasted Beef Tenderloin (Gluten Free) for 2 With Cabernet Sauvignon Reduction. Served with Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Vegetable Medley Inside Out Chicken Cordon Bleu for 2 Juicy Pan Seared Chicken Breast, Ham, Cheese, Roasted Garlic Breadcrumbs & Creamy Dijon Sauce, Truffled Mashed Potatoes & Vegetable Medley Asparagus & Goat Cheese Flan (Vegetarian) (single portion available) Dessert for 2: Flourless chocolate cake or Honey Creme Brûlée

To Be Continued Valentine Balloon Arrangement $20 or Kids Activity Kit $15

Tuesday February 9

Monday to Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm Saturday 8:00am to 6:00pm Sunday 9:00am to 6:00pm

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613.258.3014

Support Local, now more than ever!

1- Turkey lasagna in white cream sauce, crispy iceberg & blue cheese dressing.

2- Lentils & zucchini lasagna in white cream sauce, crispy iceberg & blue cheese dressing

Wednesday February 10

1- Pork piccata, lemon capers sauce, spaghetti and vegetables.

2- Spinach, sun dried tomato and tofu tart, spaghetti in lemon capers sauce.

Thursday February 11

1- Ground beef & mushroom Wellington, Madeira wine sauce, green peas and pearl onions.

2- Leek, mushroom and tofu Wellington, Madeira sauce, peas and pearl onions.

Friday February 12

1- Lemon garlic salmon fillet, tomato avocado salsa, rice.

2- Vegetarian quesadilla, tomato avocado salsa, rice.

Cold day?

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Marinated tender chicken & potatoes in mildly spiced onion in a tomato & cream sauce, Basmati rice, flat bread, vegetable samosas, tamarind dip & salad

Family Day brunch, Monday February 15th Croissant, muffins, Blueberry pancake with apple syrup, Maple glazed ham, Home fries, Berry and banana smoothie, Fruit skewer, scrambled eggs atop tomate fondue. $30.00 Plus HST and delivery

Cod, bacon and smoked salmon chowder.

24 hours slow cooked lamb shank, Colcannon and carrots.

Guinness and chocolate mousse topped with Baileys Irish cream.

Soda bread. $35.00 per person plus HST and delivery.

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February 4, 2021

Order & Pay online www.cateredaffairs.ca 613-324-3136

Chicken Tikka Masala or Vegetable Masala

St-Patrick day special dinner

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Please Preorder the day before for next day pick up.

$37.50 Complete Meal for 2 + HST $70.00 Complete Meal for 4 + HST All Family meals include Chef's choice of Soup OR salad, Appropriate Side Dishes & Dessert.

Have s soup to go with your meal, 8oz, $5.00 plus HST. This week : Italian inspired meatballs soup.

Snow Removal - Small Driveways, Walkways & Steps - Decks

Menu #47 Tues Feb 9th - Fri Feb 12th.

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Lemon Chicken Alfredo

Chunks of chicken breast in creamy lemon parmesan sauce with scallions & penne, Garlic Ciabatta, Vegetables & Caesar salad

Catered Affairs Chinese Take Out Chinese New Year 2021 Sweet & Sour Chicken balls, Blackbean sauce Vegetable & Bee,, Fried Rice, Eggrolls (1per person), Plum Sauce & Wonton Soup

Shepherds Pie

Saucy ground beef, peas & corn topped with whipped potatoes, Gravy, Chef’s vegetable medley

GiFT SoMEoNE

a “night off from the kitchen”...Gift Certificates for Curbside meals are available!

Catered Affairs has a beautiful venue space & creative ways to keep friends, family & staff socially distanced & safe… contact us for availability info@cateredaffairs.ca 613-324-3136

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Ron's Small Engine Repair We offer Pickup and Delivery Open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Call Ron for more information ronssmallengines@outlook.com South Gower

Call (613) 258-9720

1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville, Ontario

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Ron's

613.258.9720

Ron started out tinkering on equipment in 1986, working for his father's rental business. He had a natural knack for mechanics and has made his living as a mechanic for the past 25 years. As life moved and changed, the opportunity to open his own repair ronssmallengines@outlook.com shop in 2017 became a reality and he has not looked back. Ron treats all of his custom1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville ers the way he would like to be treated; in a fair and respectful manner. He works hard (across from old Bingo Hall) to repair any equipment that is brought to him in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Established in April 2017, repairing small engines of varying kinds. Servicing the immediate surrounding area. Ron's Small Engine Repair is an authorized service for Poulan, Briggs, and Stratton as well as MTD Power Equipment.

Servicing your lawn equipment as well as all engine repair.

Small Engine Repair 613.258.9720

ronssmallengines@outlook.com 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville (across from old Bingo Hall)

SELECT SIRES GENERVATIONS INC. PO BOX 489 Kemptville, Ont K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-3800 Fax: 613-258-7257 selectsiresgenervations.com

CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANT

Robert Walker, CPA, CA Bradley Mehlman CPA Dinah Boal Stephanie Turcotte Crystal Lang T: 613.258.3282 F: 613.258.4391 2 - 4 Industrial Rd, Kemptville, South Gower Business Park

February 4, 2021

Cargo Horse Utility Tow Dolly Truck Decks

Dump Flatbed Roll-off Livestock Toy/Car Hauler

www.kempro.ca

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613-258-9085

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